Queens, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF–Fresh Meadows), joined by Queens Public Library leadership, celebrated the official reopening of the newly renovated Children’s Room at the Queens Public Library Hillcrest Branch, including a special story time with local families featuring MyGym Queens. This project was made possible through a $250,000 state grant she secured for the Hillcrest branch.

The grant funded the design and structural renovation of the Children’s Area and Meeting Room, modernizing the space to better serve neighborhood families. Improvements include updated furniture and shelving; asbestos abatement and air monitoring; upgraded power and data connections; and new computers, carpeting and paint.

The opening was also attended by representatives from the Utopia Estates Civic Association, shalom Ima, and local officials.

“For years families like mine have relied on the Hillcrest branch as a place for learning, exploration, and community,” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. “This renovation ensures that our children have a bright, accessible, and inspired space designed specifically for them. It is especially meaningful to celebrate this reopening by sharing a story together, marking the beginning of a new chapter for young readers in our community.”

“We are grateful to Assemblywoman Rozic for investing in this library, which has served the community as a hub of learning, growth and opportunity for nearly 50 years,” said QPL President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott. “Thanks to her support, the branch’s children’s area and meeting room now feature new technology and furnishings, creating a more welcoming and inspiring space for all.”

“It is crucial that we make the needed investments to help children learn and grow and that includes resources like the children’s room at our local libraries such as this newly renovated one at the Hillcrest Branch,” said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens). “I was thrilled to take part in its official reopening and look forward to this space better serving local children for many years to come. As the mom of two boys, I know firsthand how important libraries are to kids in our communities. Thank you to Assemblywoman Rozic for securing the crucial funding that made these improvements possible.”

“The Hillcrest Library is a fantastic resource for our area, and I’m overjoyed to see the results of this $250,000 investment by Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. These extensive renovations and upgrades will service our local communities for many years to come, and families in particular will benefit from the Children’s Area and Meeting Room. I join my neighbors in their excitement for the official reopening of the Queens Public Library’s Hillcrest Branch,” said Assemblyman David Weprin.

NY State Senator John Liu stated, "For kids, a library isn’t just a place to borrow books – it’s a space where they can explore different cultures and expand their horizons. We’re so excited to see the children’s area reopen, now easier to use and more comfortable after the renovations.  Many thanks to Assemblywoman Rozic for securing the funding that made it all happen!"

“Today's reopening of Hillcrest Library provides vital community benefits, offering residents free access to educational resources, technology, and safe spaces for students, families, single parents and seniors to learn, connect, and grow,” said Shalom Ima founder Mazal Matayev. “The event underscores the library's role as a hub for community programs, workforce development, and cultural engagement that strengthen neighborhood ties. Thank you Assemblywoman Nily Rozic for your continuous support of our Queens community.”

Construction began in late summer 2025, with the branch reopening in phases to minimize service disruption. The Children’s Area and Meeting Room were completed earlier this year with shelving and other finishing touches being the final steps before welcoming families back into the redesigned space. The Hillcrest Branch serves a diverse and growing population in Queens and remains an essential hub for educational and cultural programming. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is expected to be scheduled in March.

This funding marks the second grant allocation announced by Rozic for 2026. Last year, the Assemblywoman marked the year with over $1.5 million dollars in state funding allocations to local schools and community centers for major renovations and vital programming. Rozic’s last community investment was $50,000 for a bilingual maternal health education program at Charles B. Wang Community Health Center, announced last month.