The New York Public Library – An Iconic Literary Gem

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While the New York Public Library system consists of 89 individual branches, the building next to Bryant Park is the one that most frequently comes to mind. Home to 75 miles of shelves housing massive humanities and social sciences archive and world-renowned through films, photographs, weddings and stories, the Public Library is one of the leading and most popular libraries in the United States. 

New York Public Library: A magical place

New York Public Library

The famous New York Public Library is an old library in the middle of Manhattan and next to Bryant Park. You’ll find this iconic building on 42nd Street on Fifth Avenue. A location is a place of silence, which is a crazy feeling when you walk inside and feel the contrast from the noise of the city.

The Library is an attractive place to use as a film set. Many of you, for example, will know the Public Library because of the film “Sex and The City”, where Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) wanted to marry Mr. Big. The NYC Public Library a very beautiful and special building and we highly recommend taking a look inside when you are nearby.

You can also join one of the library’s free tours (11 am, 2 pm Mon-Sat; 2 pm Sun). These also stop at the beautifully renovated Rose Main Reading Room and the Bill Blass Public Catalog Room.

Spotted: Rose Main Reading Room

The famous Rose Main Reading Room (Room 315) is a majestic public space, measuring 78 feet by 297 feet – roughly the length of two city blocks! It combines Old World architectural elegance with modern technology. The award-winning restoration of this room was completed in 1998, thanks to a fifteen million-dollar gift from Library trustee Sandra Priest Rose and Frederick Phineas Rose, who renamed the room in honor of their children. The New York Public Library is a Must-See for first time New York visitors since it’s one of the most popular sights in the city. Come early to avoid crowds and make sure to stop by Bryant Park right after.

Public Library Main Reading Room

FAQ

Can anyone go to the NY public library?

Yes, everyone can go to the New York Public Library. If you want to borrow a book you need a library card but if you just want to see the inside of the building you can always come during the opening hours. But always keep in mind to stay quiet!

Is New York Public Library open for free?

Yes, the New York Public Library is open for free. You don’t need to pay entry but if you want to get access to the books you need a library card. Everyone 13 and older who lives, works, attends school or pays property taxes in NY state can get this library card for free. Visitors can get a temporary card.

Which is the main NYC public library?

The New York Public Library consists of many buildings throughout the city, but the main building is the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at the corner of 5th Avenue and 42nd Street. It is located right next to Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan.

Profilbild Steffen Kneist
About the author

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!

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