Read about LINC in the "Bronx Times" and "Riverdale Press" Celebrating 7-Day Library Service at the Kingsbridge Public Library with Council Member Eric Dinowitz

On Sunday, September 7, Council Member Eric Dinowitz hosted a community celebration outside the NYPL’s Kingsbridge Library to mark the launch of Sunday library service. The Kingsbridge branch is now one of 11 libraries citywide to begin offering 7-day service, thanks to a $2 million allocation secured in the City Council’s FY26 budget. 

Council Member Dinowitz fought to ensure the Kingsbridge Library was included in this expansion, which will allow the branch to open every Sunday from 1–5pm. With this addition, more than 30 libraries across New York City are now open on Sundays. 

The expansion of Sunday service at Kingsbridge Library means greater access to programming, technology, study space, and other vital resources for children, families, students, and all North Bronx residents - particularly on weekends, when many community members are best able to take advantage of the library. 

Read all about it in the Bronx Times and Riverdale Press!

At the press conference, Council Member Dinowitz was joined by fellow elected officials, school leaders, and community partners. A longtime champion of early childhood literacy, Council Member Dinowitz emphasized the importance of instilling a love of reading from an early age, noting that libraries are essential spaces where residents of all ages can learn, explore, and connect. 

“Libraries are lifelines for our communities,” said Council Member Dinowitz. “With Sunday service at the Kingsbridge Library, more families will have the chance to discover the joy of reading, students will have space to study and grow, and neighbors will be able to connect with the vital resources our libraries provide. Growing up, I was a regular at the Kingsbridge branch, and now, with it open on Sundays, countless Bronxites will have even more opportunities to experience the wonder of our libraries. For working families, students, and older adults, expanded access means more chances to read, learn, and build community. This investment ensures that Bronx residents - no matter their schedule or circumstances - can take full advantage of everything our libraries offer.” 

“Libraries provide a free sanctuary for millions of New Yorkers, and expanding seven-day service will make our branches even more accessible,” said Anthony W. Marx, President and CEO of The New York Public Library. “This expansion is made possible by our City leaders who recognize that public libraries are not a luxury, but essential civic infrastructure.” 

“A library open seven days a week is not simply a service, but it is a sanctuary for learning, connection, and creativity —ensuring knowledge and opportunities are within reach of youth and families, no matter the day of the week,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “This is an exciting day for our community, and I commend Council Member Dinowitz and all who made these expanded library services possible for residents who call our district home.” 

“Libraries serve as anchors in our communities. They are safe spaces where our families, older adults, and youth can gather, learn, and grow," said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. "I am proud to join Council Member Eric Dinowitz, the New York Public Library, and community members to celebrate seven-day service at the Kingsbridge Library and various libraries across our city. Expanding access ensures our neighbors can take advantage of the programs, technology, and resources that open doors to knowledge and opportunity." 

"I am a strong supporter of New York Public Libraries and am happy to stand with Council Member Eric Dinowitz, NYPL staff and community members as the Kingsbridge Library receives additional funding to expand their hours,” said Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz. “This funding secured by Council Member Eric Dinowitz and the NYC Council will allow our community members to enjoy the free programming, technology, guidance, and other essential resources that libraries offer to the public. Libraries are an essential part of our communities, and I am happy to offer my support for additional funding to the NYPL.” 

“The Kingsbridge Library opening on Sundays is more than just expanded hours; it’s an open door to literacy and community,” said LINC Chief Programs Officer Laura Walsh. “Families now have more opportunities to read together, explore new stories, and connect with one another. LINC is proud to continue our partnership with the library to make these moments possible because literacy is essential to community strength. At LINC, we believe that when a child reads, a community succeeds, and Sunday openings ensure more families can share in that success.” 

“Our community having the ability to access the Kingsbridge library seven days a week provides students and families with opportunities to expand their learning, spark joy, and have a space to explore the world of literacy and technology in a safe and inviting environment,” said In-Tech Academy Principal David Weissberg. 

“Amber Charter Schools is proud to partner with the Kingsbridge Library to provide our students and families with enriching opportunities to learn, explore, and connect, right here in the heart of our community, said Amber Charter Schools Co-CEO, Veronica Almedina. This collaboration reflects our commitment to ensuring education extends beyond the classroom and into the neighborhoods we serve. 

“Riverdale Neighborhood House began over 150 years ago as a small community library, so we know firsthand the power of access to books and learning,” said Riverdale Neighborhood House President Emma Pollack. “We are thrilled that the Kingsbridge Library will now be open on Sundays, offering even more opportunities for neighbors of all ages to gather, explore, and grow together.” 

"Libraries and older adult centers share the same mission—building community, supporting learning, and reducing isolation, said Riverdale Senior Services (RSS)’s Executive Director for Center for Ageless Living Tina M. Cordoza. “We’re excited to see the Kingsbridge Library open its doors seven days a week and know this will make a real difference for older adults and families across the Bronx." 

LINC was proud to participate in this momentous celebration and host a storytime with Council Member Dinowitz once the library opened on Sunday at 1pm. We are grateful to our families, partners, elected officials, and all community members who recognize the importance of early literacy and were instrumental in extending library hours.

To register for a LINC program in your neighborhood, visit www.lincnyc.org/programs.