New York Public Library
A National Historic Landmark building, the New York Public Library is one of the best examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the United States
Free to tour and contrary to the movie The Day After Tomorrow, the New York Public Library is very much still intact and is one of the premier research facilities in the country.
Opened in 1911 on the site of the Croton Reservoir, the landmark building designed by Carrère and Hastings was the largest marble structure in the United States at the time. Created by combing the collections of the failing Astor and Lenox Libraries and the over $2.4 million dollar Tilden Trust, the public reading room and library had over one million volumes when it opened. Today it services almost 2 million library card holders.
A National Historic Landmark building, the New York Public Library is one of the best examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the United States. Entering through Astor Hall, welcomed by vaulted marble ceilings three feet thick and a grand double staircase, you can join a free docent-led tour of the building or exhibitions. The famous Rose Main Reading Room is a majestic space filled with natural light from massive arch windows and lined with thousands of reference works under beautiful panel ceilings and chandeliers. In the Bill Blass room, one of the few remaining copies of the Gutenberg Bible is on display.
Most of the books in the library are stored on an incredible 75 miles of steel shelving located below the massive reading room. These metal shelving units double as supports for the floor of the reading room above.
Check out the 'Photos and Video' tab above to view a great video highlighting some of the impressive features of this amazing building which is well worth taking time to visit.
Nearby attractions include Grand Central Terminal, Chrysler Building, Madison Square Garden, Macy's Herald Square and the Empire State Building.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoNew York Public Library Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018, USA
Phone: (917) 275-6975
Official Website: New York Public Library
New York Public Library Reviews
Rated out of 5
The New York Public Library at Bryant Park is absolutely stunning. It's a true NYC treasure.
Beyond the iconic architecture, you’ll find beautiful art, historic murals, and rotating exhibits that make it more than just a library.
The reading rooms are breathtaking, and the whole place feels like stepping into history.
Shachar Ashkenazi - a week ago
Absolutely stunning building, the architecture is beautiful, ornate ceilings, pillars and chandeliers.
We visited some great exhibitions. Really interesting place. Clean toilets and lifts to all floors. A wee gift shop which was reasonably priced.
Well worth a visit ❤️😍❤️😍❤️ and it's free ❤️
lisa berlin macquarie - a month ago
An impressive place that fascinates with its remarkable architectural details. It offers a unique experience for both curious tourists and those doing research. A must-visit for anyone who loves libraries, history, or simply enjoys discovering meaningful places
Fahriye Saraç - a month ago
A quiet masterpiece in the heart of NYC.
The New York Public Library is stunning inside and out! The marble lions, grand staircases, and Rose Main Reading Room make it feel like you’re stepping into a movie. It’s peaceful, historic, and beautifully preserved—perfect for a quick visit or just to soak in the calm away from the city buzz. A true cultural gem!
Swapnil Mahajan - a month ago
We visited the New York Public Library located right next to Bryant park on a weekday evening, half an hour before closing. It is free to enter but do check the closing timings as it changes every day of the week. Bags are checked when you enter and very large bags or suitcases aren't allowed. What a gorgeous building! We loved the Astor hall at the entrance and the McGraw Rotunda. We weren't allowed into the main reading room as it was almost closing time. But we will definitely be back to get a library card and actually read the books. The library also offers free audio tours and has steps and elevators to get to the top floors.
Neha Vl - 2 months ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| B, D, F or V | 42nd Street / Bryant Park | 5 minutes |
| 7 | 5th Avenue | 4 minutes |
How to get to New York Public Library by Subway
Take theB, D, F or V train to 42nd Street / Bryant Park , head southwest on 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), turn left on 40th Street or take the7 train to 5th Avenue, head southeast, turn right on 5th Avenue, turn right on 40th Street.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near New York Public Library:
Photo Gallery
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The Interior of the New York Public Library is nothing short of Spectacular cc licensed photo by Arroz con Nori -
Photo Credit: Janne Räkköläinen - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: RuggyBearLA - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: JFGryphon - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Nicolas Lh. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Photographing Travis - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jeffrey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mattk1979 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sharon Mollerus - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jeffrey - cc license via Flickr
