New York Public Library: the must-see library in New York
Between Bryant Park and 5th Avenue, the New York Public Library stands out. Step through the doors of the world's largest public library.
What you need to know about the New York Public Library
- The New York Public Library refers to a network of 92 libraries spread across New York City. Founded in 1895, it is today the largest public library in the world! In total, more than 56 million items are available to the public, free of charge.
- For visitors to New York, the New York Public Library usually means the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the monumental structure located in Bryant Park, in Midtown. This building serves as the central library of New York and the heart of the New York Public Library system. Here, you won’t check out books—instead, you can consult the knowledge of the world.
- The impressive Bryant Park building opened on May 24, 1944. It was designed by the architecture firm Carrère and Hastings, two partners who studied at the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. The entire structure showcases a magnificent Beaux Arts style.
- The New York Public Library houses treasures in its collection. The library preserves the draft of the American Declaration of Independence, written in Thomas Jefferson’s own hand. Another priceless item: an original copy of a Bible printed by Gutenberg in the 15th century. The collection also includes letters and manuscripts signed by major figures such as William Shakespeare, James Baldwin, Charles Dickens, and Virginia Woolf.
- Film lovers will also appreciate this place. The building appears in several famous movies, including The Day After Tomorrow and Ghostbusters.
What to see in the New York Public Library
- New York’s central library welcomes millions of visitors each year. Don’t expect the quiet calm of a traditional library.
- Start your visit by taking in the façade on Fifth Avenue. Meet the 2 majestic stone lions standing guard at the entrance. During World War II, the animals earned the nicknames Patience and Fortitude.
- Once you pass through the entrance, you’ll reach the Astor Hall. This hall is a true cathedral of white marble surrounded by staircases leading to different rooms. Look up to admire the marble vaults and ceilings decorated with woodwork. You can then head to the Visitor Center and discover temporary exhibitions.
- But the space everyone wants to see is the Rose Main Reading Room, the main reading room. As of 2025, a guided tour is now required to enter. The free tours in English last 15 minutes and run Monday through Saturday at 11:20 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm. Note: you must be among the first 25 people to arrive at the McGraw Rotunda desk 30 minutes before the tour time. Your effort will be worth it! This reading room, vast as a train station hall, is extraordinary: enormous wooden tables with gigantic legs, hundreds of bronze lamps, and a ceiling adorned with a rosy sky. A timeless space!
- Don’t miss the map room, the Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division. This department, established in 1898, holds more than 433,000 maps and over 20,000 books and atlases published from the 16th century to today. You’ll step into a world worthy of Jules Verne.
Practical information
- Address: the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is located at 476 Fifth Avenue, New York.
- Subway: 5 Av (Line 7) or 42 St-Bryant Pk (Lines B, D, F, and M).
- Hours: the central library is open Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm. Open until 8 pm on Tuesday and Wednesday.
- Admission: entry to the New York Public Library is free.
The New York Public Library in photos
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the New York Public Library?
Arrive at opening time, 10 am, to make the most of your visit. After that, the library fills up. A visit to the New York Public Library pairs well with Times Square, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, Grand Central Terminal, and the Chrysler Building. Located in central Midtown, it’s easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule.
How do you visit the Rose Main Reading Room at the New York Public Library?
The tour is free but guided in English only. You must arrive at the McGraw Rotunda desk 30 minutes before the tour and be among the first 25 people to register. Tours run Monday through Saturday at 11:20 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm and last 15 minutes.
Can you check out books at the New York Public Library?
No, you cannot check out books at the New York Public Library as a tourist visiting New York. To borrow books, you must live in New York and obtain a Library Card. However, as a visitor, you can read and consult books and materials on-site. This is possible at all 92 New York libraries.