The Elmhurst Library closed its doors on Monday, November 7, to make way for a new and expanded building set to open in 2013.

“It has become a victim of its own success and needs to expand in a new building that will double the size of the old one,” said Queens Borough President Helen Marshall.

Marshall allocated almost $23 million in capital funds for the new library and another $1.6 million for the furniture and equipment.

The new $27.8 million library, located at 86-01 Broadway, will feature four levels for customers, with elevator access to all levels. There will be a Cyber Center with 32 computers, a new Adult Learner Center, and separate library areas for children, teenagers, and adults.

The new building will still feature the Children’s Room fireplace, however, it will be relocated.

The improved library will have an interior reading atrium as well as front and rear community gardens.

Queens Library President and CEO Thomas Galante said that the current library lends one-million books and DVDs each year, which is more than twice the volume per square foot of the Flushing Library, the busiest library in New York State.

“The new Queens Library at Elmhurst will be a community hub for generations to come, with its gardens and a wealth of resources,” Galante said.

The Queens Library will provide a book bus for customers, which will be parked outside the current Elmhurst Library on a limited basis. Later this winter, a temporary library will open at 85-08 51st Avenue.

Starting November 14, the Adult Learner Center will temporarily open in the former gym at St. James, 84-07 Broadway.