The reopening of the Fort Hamilton branch of the Brooklyn Public Library has been delayed to the fall of 2010, according to the Brooklyn Paper. The 100+ year old building is apparently tasty – if you’re a termite, that is – and will require more extensive work to repair.

When complete, the renovation will increase the library floor space by 50%. But the branch has been replaced for nearly two full years by visits from the BPL’s mobile book truck.

Which I think is really sad, but given the state of library funding in this city (see: the game of Chicken that’s played with the library budget on an annual basis), I suppose a scaled-down temporary branch in an unused storefront is too much to ask for (something the library in Fairfield, CT did a few years ago).

And speaking of that annual game of Budget Chicken, the BPL is sending out a call for help! From Sheepshead Bites:

2009 has been a challenging year for many Brooklynites. Through it all, Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) has seen a record number of people use our free resources and services to help them achieve their dreams. But, with a current budget shortfall of $7 million and the possibility of more cuts in the future, we need your help.

Please consider making a generous year-end gift to BPL. For a 2009 tax deduction, make your contribution by December 31.

Your gift will help BPL provide:

• Free tutors and after-school programs
• More than 600 workshops to help jobseekers
• Books, DVDs, and literary and cultural programs for families
• Computer and internet access for new Americans and those without home computers

Please donate online now. You can also make a donation by phone at (718) 230-2738.

Brooklynites depend on their libraries, and we rely on your support to help deliver the high quality library service that every Brooklyn resident needs and deserves.

(Photo credit: Brooklyn Public Library)