Brooklyn bicyclists and bibliophiles can register now for “Bike the Branches,” a daylong bike ride through Brooklyn Public Library’s (BPL) 60-branch system.
One of the borough’s largest biking events, “Bike the Branches,” to be held on May 7, is a key component of the BPL’s Support the Branches spring fundraising campaign, “which raises urgently needed dollars for BPL’s programs and services.”
The event drew nearly 1,000 riders and participants last year, BPL said.
“Bike the Branches is a great day to support the Library by hitting the road or attending an event at your local branch,” said Brooklyn Public Library President and Chief Executive Officer Linda Johnson. “Whether you’d prefer to support the Library by spending a day in the saddle or simply by enjoying a good book, we hope you’ll join us on May 7.”
BPL said new this year to “Bike the Branches” are a series of guided rides departing from Central Library that will help riders efficiently explore BPL’s branches and the neighborhoods they serve.
The library is also making it easier than ever to rent a set of wheels for “Bike the Branches,” with Citi Bike day passes and full-day rentals from Bike-n-Roll.
And an added bonus: four branches will host Smorgasburg vendors, giving riders a chance to refuel at Greenpoint, Windsor Terrace, Bedford and Central libraries.
BPL said riders will enjoy a fun-filled day of biking and will be issued “Branch Passports” to be stamped at each library they visit between 10 am and 5 pm.
The adults and children who accrue the most stamps at the end of the day will receive prizes, BPL said. Last year’s winners took first prize by visiting an astonishing 40 branches.
Festivities will also include book display contests, programs and activities throughout many of the borough’s 60 public libraries.
The day will conclude with the Bike the Branches Block Party on Grand Army Plaza from 3 pm to 7 pm, with food, refreshments and live music.
