This is the official account of Brooklyn Public Library (BPL), an independent library system for the 2.6 million residents of Brooklyn. #ForBrooklynWelcome to the Center for Brooklyn History (CBH). CBH is a research library and community hub dedicated to public history.

Core values

- **Preservation and Education**: BHS preserves and makes available important materials representative of Brooklyn's diverse peoples and cultures, educating residents and the larger community on Brooklyn’s history[2][4].
- **Community Engagement**: It serves as a cultural hub for civic dialogue, thoughtful engagement, and community outreach, promoting a sense of community through a shared historic identity[2][4].
- **Public Profile and Visibility**: The society's anniversary campaign significantly increased its public profile, making it a go-to place for people interested in Brooklyn's history and future, which in turn helped in raising more money and garnering a bigger audience[1].
- **Addressing Societal Needs**: BHS addresses historical and cultural needs by recovering and celebrating legacies such as the abolitionist movement and mutual aid societies, which are still relevant to contemporary issues like housing, voting, education, jobs, and safety[5].
- **Improving Quality of Life**: By providing a meaningful context to historical materials through innovative exhibitions and public programs, BHS enhances the quality of life for its community members by fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their heritage[2].