New York Public Library

This library is such a beautiful and peaceful spot in the city. The architecture is stunning, both inside and out. The Main Reading Room is quiet, spacious, and a perfect place to read or just soak in the atmosphere, it just looks like something out of a movie. They have a plenty collection of books, and the staff is really helpful. Even if you’re not planning to sit and read, it’s worth visiting just to walk around. Definitely a must-see when visiting New York City!
Raden R - 2 months ago

This library was stunning and well worth the visit to see the architecture and murals. The visit is free and a great way to spend an hour without adding to your trip budget. We really wanted to see the reading room but weren’t told when we asked that the tour only takes 25 people at a time and only runs at 11:20, so we weren’t actually able to see that part of the library.
Emily Hellewell Clews - a week ago

One of the cities greatest treasures, and I am SO grateful I had the opportunity to visit. I was lucky enough to book advance tickets to the hour-long tour. The tickets are FREE, but they are only available in limited quantity and are released for booking one week at a time every Sunday morning. The quality of a tour that we received was PRICELESS! I learned more about libraries and information, the city’s history, and American culture in that hour and ten minutes than I would have if I spent the entire day at another one of the city’s more pricier museums. After our tour, we had a question about the building that our tour guide suggested we ask a librarian. We got visitor library cards and were sent back up to the Rose Main Reading Room, where a general reference librarian referred us to the Art and Architecture branch and a lovely librarian entertained our research question. She sent for a retrieval of a book relevant to our question and we got to sit in the reading room and look at it- super cool! My only regret is not budgeting more time to explore the building on my own after the guided tour ended. If you have the attention span, you could easily spend a full day here looking at all of the rooms and exhibits. If you’re pressed for time, the Rose Main Reading Room is open to public visitation from 10-11am I believe. The Treasures exhibit is worth a peek as they currently have the original Winnie-the-Pooh plushies and an original Gutenberg Bible on display. I would also recommend the gift shop, which does have an online store if you miss it, but they do not ship internationally. The tote bags are super cute. Also make sure you get a temporary library card from the visitor’s centre if you’re travelling because it makes for a neat souvenir!
Carmen Keith - a month ago

Wow! I have seen this library so many times in the movies. It was great to experience in person. It was gorgeous! I love the architecture of the building. The marble is so unique and aesthetic. You do have to go through security but it's okay. They move pretty fast.
Mary Nguyen - 3 months ago