If you’re in New York City and want to visit some libraries, this post is for you. Below we’ve featured 10 of the best public libraries in NYC.
1. Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
This location first opened on May 23, 1911 and is the first library that opened in the New York Public Library System. This library was renamed in honor of Stephen A. Schwarzman, who made a donation of $100 million to the New York Public Library in 2008.
There are a variety of services available to the public. People can view their online catalog and browse through their books, music, and movies list. Kids and teens can also take part in a variety of programs, like STEAM Storytime. There’s a historic study room called the Rose Main Reading Room, which people can use for studying. There are also many public art exhibits and meetings. View their event calendar for the latest updates.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
2. New York Society Library
New York Society Library is in the Manhattan borough of New York City. It was founded in 1754 and is the oldest library in New York City. It is open to the public every day except on holidays.
You can view the library’s collections from their online catalog. The library also offers electronic resources for the public to use, like reference materials. There are a variety of study rooms available, but reservations are needed to use them. There’s a children’s program at the library, putting events such as writers’ workshops. If you’re wanting a reason to visit the library, view their events calendar online.
Contact the library for more information.
3. The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts
This library is located in the Manhattan Borough of New York City. It opened on November 30, 1965. It houses a vast collection of resources for performing arts studies.
The library offers event and meeting rooms for public use. There’s an outdoor reading room for people to enjoy, along with a variety of other study spaces located throughout the building. The library also offers a tech kit program where people can rent a variety of digital tools, such as an iPad. If you’re strolling through Manhattan, stop by the library and attend one of their events.
Contact the library if you want to know more.
4. Central Library (Brooklyn)
The Central Library is located in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. It opened to the public in 1941 and has been a mainstay for the area.
People can view their online catalog, featuring a list of librarian picks. There’s also a digital collection to look through if you cannot make it to the library. People can access Wi-Fi, public computers, or even reserve a meeting room. There are a variety of programs available for children and teens, located in the Youth Wing. There’s also a culinary service program where people learn how to work in a cafe or restaurant.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
5. Clinton Hill Library
The Clinton Hill Library in 1973 in the Brooklyn Borough of New York City. The library is known for its popular and highly attended programs. This library has been a great addition to the neighborhood.
Although it’s a small, one story building, many people still take advantage of the library as an educational resource. Wi-Fi and computers are available to the public. There are also a variety of events for people of all ages to attend.
Contact the library for more information.
6. Central Library (Queens)
The Central Library is located in the Queens borough of New York City. It traces its roots back to 1858, but did not become a public library until 1884.
People can view their collection of books online. There’s also multiple digital research databases that people can look through. The library hosts kids’ programs that list resources for educators and caregivers as well. Teens can also take advantage of the programs the library offers for college readiness and homework help. The library also offers free access to its Wi-Fi and computers. People can view their list of programs and events online.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
7. Bronx Library Center
The Bronx Library Center opened on January 17, 2006. It’s the Bronx borough’s largest library. It’s also the first sustainable library in the New York Public Library system, receiving a LEED Silver Certification Award.
The library boasts a range of services, including access to computers and Wi-Fi. There are technology classes that are free for adults to attend. There are also a variety of children’s events open to the public, including Storytime and arts programs. The teens section of the library is located on the main floor. People can view research services online.
Contact the library for more information.
8. New Dorp Library
The New Dorp Library started in 1907 and is located in the Staten Island borough of New York City. There have been numerous renovations to this library, with the latest being in 2000.
The library offers many services to the public, along with educational events. People can view their online catalog to see what books the library offers. The library offers children’s services, such as book recommendations and book discussions. Teens can meet up with other book lovers during their Teen Cafe events. People can rent event spaces. For art and history lovers, the museum offers traveling exhibits.
Contact the library if you have questions.
9. DeKalb Library
The DeKalb Library is located in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. This library opened on February 11, 1905 and is revered for its great architectural design.
The Dekalb Library offers reading rooms, public Wi-Fi, Storytime and other programming. There are also a variety of outdoor programs for people who want to enjoy their favorite book outdoors. People can view their online catalog for books and other educational resources. There are a variety of events that people can attend, which you can see on their online calendar. The library also offers a variety of programs for youth and families.
Contact the library for more information.
10. Farmingdale Public Library
The Farmingdale Public Library is located in the Long Island section of the Queens Borough. The library started on April 9, 1923 and has evolved over the years to become a mainstay in the community.
People can view their online catalog to see what they have to offer. There is also a digital database available for the public to use. The library offers computers and Wi-Fi for the public to use. The library also hosts programs for children and teens. There are plenty of events to attend, so be sure to view their calendar.
Contact the library if you want to know more.