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
A beautiful and historic library in the heart of NYC.
• The architecture — inside and out — is incredibly intricate. Beyond the books, the curated displays are thoughtfully done.
• It truly feels like a library-museum.
• Not crowded when I visited (winter weekday morning = perfect timing!).
• Very well-organized sections and floors, and everything was clean.
• There’s also a café and a cozy little shop.
• Restrooms are accessible and well-maintained.
• Definitely a must-see in NYC! 🤍📚
BA - 4 months ago
Very warm atmosphere, we enjoyed the free tour and reading room cataloged. The treasures exhibit is incredible and brimming with historical documents and objects. Definitely worth a visit and cool photo opps as well!
Lina Teo - 2 weeks ago
Iconic Public library for NYC. Biggest library I've ever seen without seeing any books! More like a free museum that you should dedicate about 2-3 hours to! Did not know what to expect, but it was neat to see. Note that the Rose room requires proof of research to enter, so don't expect to enter and see any books as a tourist. Very busy for a Saturday afternoon, lots of graduation photos, and engagement photos occupying spaces to walk publically. Staff was less than enthusiastic to serve the public.
Bags checked but not for anything dangerous - just for books! (Source - asked an employee!)
Karen Davis - 2 weeks ago
A must-see, in my opinion. It's an incredible building right in the heart of 5th Av. Take some time to explore the interior, walk through the corridors, and look for the murals depicting the history of writing. It's also a great place to take a break and relax, either inside or in the outdoor areas. Before leaving, be sure to stop by the gift shop for a cool souvenir.
Dj Perrito - a week 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.
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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: grits2go - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: RuggyBearLA - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Nicolas Lh. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jeffrey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: JFGryphon - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: RuggyBearLA - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Hicham Souilmi - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: RuggyBearLA - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mattk1979 - cc license via Flickr
