The New York Public Library (NYPL) is a world-renowned institution that serves as a hub for knowledge, culture, and community in New York City. As one of the largest public libraries in the United States, the NYPL has a vast collection of books, periodicals, manuscripts, maps, and other materials, many of which are rare or unique. The library is housed in several buildings throughout the city, including the iconic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. This Beaux-Arts style building, which opened in 1911, is home to the library's research collections, including the Humanities and Social Sciences Library, the Map Division, and the Manuscripts and Archives Division. The building also features several public spaces, including the Rose Main Reading Room and the Bill Blass Public Catalog Room, both of which are stunning examples of historic architecture. In addition to its physical collections and spaces, the NYPL also offers a range of digital resources and services, including e-books, online databases, and virtual events and programs. The library's website is easy to navigate and provides access to a wealth of information and resources. Overall, the New York Public Library is a vital resource for scholars, researchers, and the general public. Its collections, services, and programs are unparalleled, making it one of the most important cultural institutions in the world.

The New York Public Library is an absolute treasure for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. As a visitor, I was in awe of the library's majestic architecture, with its iconic lion statues guarding the entrance. Inside, the grandeur continued, with vast reading rooms, historic manuscripts, and an incredible collection of books from every genre imaginable. Beyond its literary treasures, the library also serves as a haven for those seeking a quiet and contemplative space in the midst of bustling Manhattan. Whether you're doing research, reading, or simply exploring the grand halls, the New York Public Library offers a sense of serenity in the heart of the city. What struck me most during my visit was the palpable sense of history that permeates the library's halls. It's not just a repository of books; it's a repository of knowledge, culture, and the collective memory of a city and a nation. It's a place where the past and present coexist harmoniously. I highly recommend a visit to the New York Public Library, not only for its literary treasures but also for the profound sense of history and culture it imparts to all who enter its doors. It's a true gem in the cultural tapestry of New York City.

I recently visited the Central Public library to check out their new renovation and exhibition, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed! Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library's Treasures is now open and it is for free. The unique artwork was thoughtfully arranged throughout the space, allowing visitors to take their time exploring each piece and fully appreciating its unique qualities. Additionally, the library included several interactive exhibits that engaged visitors in a more hands-on way, making for an even more memorable experience. The exhibition also had a strong educational component, with informative placards accompanying each piece to provide context and historical background. I appreciated the effort that went into creating a well-rounded exhibition that not only showcased beautiful artwork but also encouraged visitors to learn and engage with the pieces on a deeper level. I highly recommend anyone to visit and experience it for themselves!

This place has beautiful architecture, and that is worth popping in to see. We went a bit later in the day on a weekday, and although everything was gorgeous, security was quick, and it was a pretty cool stop to make...I sort of left wondering where all the books were. I'm not sure if we just didn't stay long enough to find everything, or if *all* the books were in the study room that didn't seem very open to the public unless you're studying. It was a little disappointing to go in as book-lovers and not be able to see the actual books. I also felt like every door we came across was closed and locked, so there wasn't much to do aside from roaming the beautiful hallways. We didn't have long to stay there, so as I said, maybe we just missed something! But I found it a little disappointing somehow even though it was clearly all beautiful and clean.

Oh my! This library is a museum. You will not believe the grand marble building you will enter when you go there for the first time. It's all free too! The gilded age and all the rich entrepreneurs of that time built this building. It's an amazing building that would never be built if it wasn't for the money that was pouring in from the railroads, and from other rich people. You will notice that the Vanderbilt's had nothing to do with the building of this building, probably due to the Asters who despised them so much. You will see portraits of the Asters in one room. It's just so amazing to look back at these people that I have read so much about. The Vanderbilt's got back at them by building Grand Central station. Please go visit this great exhibit.

I love libraries and this is a beautiful one. When we visited it had an extraordinary exhibit in the main area. The 3-stars is because it isn't really a public library anymore so much as a tourist trap (that we were caught in). There aren't any actual books to sit down and read and the 'reading room' that staff directs tourists to won't let you in without 'reading material' in your hands already. Once you leave the exhibit hall (which, again, the exhibit was fantastic), you are ushered into the STORE and CAFE, where everything is bookish and neat and the bags are awesome. I was just mad to have traveled all that way and not known that you couldn't actually sit down with a book in this branch of the library.

Guess what offers (1) FREE admission; (2) Knowledgeable tour guides (also free); (3) stunning architecture & art work; (4) a tranquil place for research & study; and (5) historical one-of-a-kind maps, periodicals & books (including some of Shakespeare's First Folios & the 1st printing of the King James Bible, 1611)? That's right, the New York Public Library and its flagship Schwarzman Building. So glad I added this stop to my brief New York City visit. // BONUS: Right behind the library is Bryant Park, a large green space to relax, grab a bite, or to socialize.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

We loved the library!! It was absolutely breathtaking. Not only was it beautiful but it was clean and well secured. We actually went there to study, and we loved that they had security actually watching out for people studying or those people causing noise. The only thing you heard were the chairs moving when people arrived or left. This made it so much easier to study and concentrate. The bathrooms were clean, and there were several things to do inside the library. There was a beautiful exhibition of artifacts and so many things to see. There is little park to sit and relax next door and a Starbucks across the street. We absolutely loved our trip to the library!!

Admittedly, being more of a museum than a library, every corner of the building is incredible; the historic architecture alone is breathtaking. I got to attend a free exhibit that was open to the public, where it was very educational and entertaining! The gift shop had antique library merchandise, vintage kitchenware, cool gadgets, cute decorations, and small collectibles. As other reviews have mentioned, bag checks are required when entering and exiting the library. Arguably my favorite place to visit in all of New York!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Was visiting NYC for a few days and decided to visit the New York Public Library. When entering, you are greeted by security staff that do a quick check/inspection before you enter. The library, both the exterior and interior, has very beautiful architecture. The ceilings were very admirable and were very unique with the designs and colours. There’s a lot of different exhibits that you can visit, you’ll definitely need a few hours to fully go through the library. It is free to visit, some tours have specific time slots (so be sure to check that out in advance). Definitely recommend checking this place out if you’re in New York!

This place is phenomenal! We could have spent all day in here just admiring the amazing architecture! The free exhibition in one of the main rooms was a wonderful experience. The staff do have extra security checks as you enter the building but it’s great to see these safety precautions being implemented in a public, historic building. If you’re thinking you’re going to see the basement ghost or visit the big room with the fireplace (as in the movie The Day After Tomorrow) don’t be too disappointed when you can’t get to those rooms inside the building. There’s plenty of other interesting things to explore and see.

A true library for any library to aspire too. I spent an hour here but wish I could have spent more time. It's an large and full of charm. I'm sure someone better would be able to explain the history but it's so neat to walk around. You do need a library card to get into some rooms but a lot of the space you can explore yourself. Also they have a little museum of special historical artifacts that's really special to see. You have to reserve time to see it but it doesn't take long. I recommend seeing this at least once if you're traveling to NY! Also the park outside is so beautiful and wonderful.

A beautiful building that is well worth the visit. You can only visit the fancy Rose Reading room at certain times and/or with a tour. If you want to get in to study, which is open for anyone, you stuff to study which is "more than a phone", like books, a laptop or tablet. When we went there was an exhibition on the ground floor with some amazing old documents, including a Guttenberg Bible, an early version of the Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Beautiful architecture, excellent experience. The outdoor fountains are spectacular, the water during the heatwave was over 80 degrees. When you enter the doors you are greeted by the security staff, they are upbeat and pleasant and get the inspection over quickly. The ceilings, chandeliers and staircases are breathtaking, we visited the InterSect Exhibit and charged our cellphones in one of the many cool rooms filled with art. So many things to do and see, we ran out of time. I look forward to spending more time visiting this lovely library next time we are in the city.

It's a beautiful building with painted walls and ceilings. It has some sections which are open and free to public while some sections require access by purchasing them. Do check out there website before visiting to see there ticket availablity. Tickets are free but you need to make reservations for the private tours of selected areas. The timings are also provided in there website. They have some unique collections
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

It’s a bit confusing if you’ve never been here before. It’s a library but it’s like a museum at the same time, I didn’t see that many bookshelves but it’s alright I was there just to sight see. Pros: It’s a cool place to visit, the art gallery inside looks nice. Cons: Confusing hallways, some of the places are not for sight seeing but rather a studying place and it needs to be quiet. Bathrooms are small as well. The place itself is massive so you have no idea where you are going if it’s your first time.

The New York Public Library is fantastic to visit from beginning to end. The architecture alone is amazing, inside and out. The majestic steps leading to the pillars at the entrance are beautiful. There is always a free exhibit open to the public with rotating items and features. There is also a gift shop and library cafe. There are also quiet rooms to study or work. As a tourist, I’d plan at least an hour at this library. They do a bag check upon entry and exit, no food or drinks allowed.

This was a highlight of my visit to New York City. I loved wandering around the building, pondering the readers and writers who had been there before me. The shop has wonderful items, not least of which are the fridge magnets! Best of all, is the man in the yellow suit who sat outside. Dan Hurley, will write your life story for you in minutes and present you with a manually typed copy. I loved my story which he wrote after a couple of minutes conversation. I will cherish it forever.

Well, as expected it is a public library. It does not open on Sundays and there are toilets if you are in need ;) Besides that, there is just a small expositions of collectibles and pretty much all you have to do is to wander around the corridors. Most of the rooms you cannot go inside (if uou are not reasearching something). But it is free and very pretty inside.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Whilst this is a very interesting place and a cool building I was let down coming here. When we came the treasures room was closed and we were restricted with which rooms we could go in to. It was overall soured by the guard at the door when leaving who made me feel uncomfortable and like a criminal simply because I had a backpack. There’s way less aggressive ways to ask someone who’s compliant to open a bag to search it
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

Great place to sit and work. Went for the first time so got a bit caught up with the marvellous architecture and interior. Totally has hogwarts feels and I could spend the whole day looking at the exhibits and interiors. There is a huge hall on the 3rd floor to quietly sit and read/work. I have also heard that they have another building across the street which has a great rooftop cafe with amazing views. Highly recommend!

The best place for readers all around the world. The NY public libraries is one of the best libraries ever and you can easily spend a day here reading so many genres or studying or just admiring the architecture. If you are visiting the city as a tourist and you love to visit libraries, look no further.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

It's a beautiful building and lovely to walk in if you really love architecture (or libraries haha) which I do, but I was pretty disappointed that you can't visit the rose reading room unless you're studying. I totally understand why, but that was my whole point in going so left pretty quickly.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The library actually looks more like a museum than a library. Public are allowed to get inside until the entrance of the research room. There is another photo exhibition about the history of the NYC subway. The building has become a little festive since December, with a beautiful Christmas tree placed at the main door.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It has a peaceful environment, the employees are very helpful. The building smells of history, the huge walls and the artwork on the walls are a visual feast. I was very happy to be there. Your bag is searched at the door, food and drink are not accepted. There are suitable places in the library for you to work in conjunction with the intensity. They require reservations for some halls. Must visit!

The New York Public Library (NYPL) is one of the most iconic and renowned public libraries in the world. It consists of several branches across the city, including the historic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, commonly known as the Main Branch, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

One of my favourite spots in the New York City. I do have membership to the Library and able to go in the Rose Hall. For those visitors, there are many places that great for pictures. The free tour starts from 1030AM and limited to 25 pax so be sure to stand in line soonest.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

An architectural Masterpiece, as soon as you walk in you are engulfed with this feeling of pure amazement!! The indoors is truly gorgeous, it feels like a combination of being in a museum and a library. The best part of all is that is totally FREE!! and as long as you don’t use flash, photography is allowed. Just remember its an actual library so you have to keep quiet and respectful of others.

The grandness and depth of New York City's architecture is aptly reflected in this gorgeous library. Not only is this library huge but it also carries a great deal of historical artifacts. Unfortunately we were not allowed to enter the Rose Hall as we were a minute late after the tour admissions had closed. But we deeply enjoyed strolling around this magnificent building nevertheless.

Not to be missed when visiting New York !! One of the most beautiful landmarks in New York, this 19 century building has a stunning architecture inside outside.Facing the Bryant Park, it’s free for tourists to visit ( not all the halls though). They also organize a free tour at 3 pm where you can enter the gorgeous hall with the wooden ceiling that is open for academics only.

Whether you’re a tourist, or a lifelong New Yorker, this beaux-arts gem of a building is worth a visit to see the collected treasures, and historical documents collected by the library. You’ll find an original score in Mozart’s hand, letters by George Washington, Dickens’ writing desk, the original Winnie The Pooh stuffed animals, and various collected ephemera of the ages.

Very cool to visit and walk around. The architecture is quite amazing to look at. This place is more museum than library. I didn’t see a lot of books. There was a gift shop with really nice gift options. We got a few things there. Also there was a room that really was like a museum (free to enter) with display cases of old books and antiques and art. Very cool.

Gorgeous building and mind-boggling amount of books. They offer free 75min tours at 12 and 2pm. Also you can sign up for a free tour of the other exhibitions. Otherwise you can still walk around and enjoy the public spaces on the three floors, but can’t go to all the halls. There is a nice souvenir shop where you can get 10% discount with the tour sticker.

Extraordinary library and museum, with some literary jewels of great interest. Fragments of history immortalized in pieces of paper. Admission is free. The reading room is only accessible in guided tour groups. Highly recommended.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a landmark Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street in Midtown Manhattan. Library houses architectural wonders include the stunning Map Division and the breathtaking Rose Main Reading Room, nearly the length of a football field. Don’t miss free exhibitions and daily tours.

This Library has very beautiful spaces for reading and researching. Most of the rooms need an advanced booking. The library also has a museum, where you can find a very interesting collection; including: hair from Beethoven, the Declaration of Independence, stuffed animals that inspired Winnie the Pooh. It's a fun and interesting place to visit.

Definitely a place to visit in new york. Free entrance, just a security check at the entrance and at the exit. The library is really well maintained and used by students and readers. Not all rooms are open for tourists in order to maintain the function and the quietly of the library. Staff is friendly. The location is great. Recommended

My visit to the New York Public Library was truly memorable. The library's rich history and well-preserved architecture left me in awe. Although I couldn't enter the beautiful Rose Hall, I enjoyed exploring the building and visiting the free exhibitions. It was a delightful experience immersed in the grandeur of this historic landmark.

My first time being in the Public Library.Grand architecture. I was able to go into the research/reading area and the feeling and smell of books is unimaginable! Great place to sit and get lost in a book.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Any trip to NYC should include a visit to this magnificent library. It is one of the most impressive buildings in midtown. The interior is spectacular and filled with history. If I was a local I would spend a lot of time in this library. Oh and make sure to take photos with the iconic lions (patience and fortitude) at the entrance !

A must see for anyone living here or visiting! Would strongly suggest visiting on a weekday when the crowds are more minimal and spending some time walking around the building and appreciating the architecture. One thing I thought was really cool were the photographs on the second floor of the entire library staff from the 1970s.

This beautiful and infamous library has their main iconic reading room closed to the public, and part of that room is only accessible if you are going to do active research or came to study. Still very surreal being inside of the building, and walking around outside to admire the architecture. The shop is also a reader’s dream.

An absolutely stunning building both inside and out. It’s free to enter and walk around. There’s a gift shop on the first floor with a lot of New York themed goods that might be very useful for tourists looking to buy something nice. The quiet atmosphere inside makes for a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Fifth Avenue.

A must see. The architecture, neoclassical al fresco artwork and opulence. So many movies were filmed here and I can see why. Most of the people visiting were respectful and quiet. There is also a really nice gift shop inside where they have unique literary gifts along with a coffee bar. Great place to visit and it's free too!

LOVE it: a wonderful place to go. There is a genealogy room to the right hall way. I did my research here, mostly genealogy related, and the library itself, from the Astors... look for my up coming books -:) During the high tourist season, it can be trying. I'm cleaning up my phone: these pix were taken on Dec 7, 2021.

Whenever I'm in New York, I love visiting this majestic building with its many literary, cultural, and historical treasures! On my latest visit the festive decorations with the beautiful Xmas tree made it even more special!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

GORGEOUS architecture; the entire library is so beautiful to walk through and the outside looks amazing as well. Great place to take photos. There's some cool artifacts and paintings throughout the library, and there is a café and gift shop inside. A must-go for tourists, especially since it's free.

magical place, entry is free however there are some parts that you can access with certain requirements. There are temporary exhibitions, very organized and quiet. recommended
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

It was such a pleasure to enjoy this historical research facility. Immaculate marble everywhere. The treasures exhibit was wow. We actually spend alot of time there. The gift shop and cafe was neat and so inviting. The 3rd floor was the best at the McGraw Rotunda was gorgeous.

Monumental building that transcends time. Full of history, with abundant art everywhere, from paintings, donated acquisitions such as Winnie Poo dolls, as well as its interior that from its living rooms, doors, lamps and corridors are already part of its elegant presentation.

Beautiful building in a beautiful area! Patience and Fortitude standing (sitting?) guard outside, and of course the original Winnie the pooh stuffies
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Legendary place . You think you are inside a movie . The reading room is not accessible for tourist , only under request with group in specific time . In the photos you can see Gutenberg bible , one of the most rare books of the world ( see pawn stars series ) …

I am a library dweller and I steadfastedly believe libraries are the last vestiges of hope for humanity. The NYPL is hands- down the greatest library I've ever visited in my life. The energy of the place is decadent and I wished I spent my life here in my college days.

the workers there are really nice and friendly, well-kept building and gorgeous architecture. if you’re looking for a nice, air conditioned place to spend time then you won’t regret stopping by. love their ‘collections of the library’ exhibit space thing especially!!

We always have to come here on our trips to NYC, its such a amazingly beautiful building!!!! And of course you can see all of the books and exhibits! I LOVE the gift shop they have and I can spend hours here! You have to stop in! And plan lots of time to stay! …

What an exquisite place to visit!! I thoroughly enjoyed my time here. Definately a must see while you are in NYC. I will be back again :)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Definitely a must see if you're in the area but worth noting you can't bring any luggage in with you but there is luggage storage in the area
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This is a nice visit. Everything is quiet and antique and classic architecture. If you enjoyed about history you will like it. It is free and next to Bryant Park. You can see the Empire State Building since the street between the Bryant park and the library.

Inside was gorgeous. Unfortunately we were allowed in the study hall unless we were researching or actually studying but that's fair. Architecture was beautiful inside. Lots of seating area. Washrooms on each floor. AC in some places. Definitely check it out

If you need to work or study at the library, you can apply for a library card on-site. With this card, you'll have internet access and the opportunity to visit various rooms. Please note that some rooms may have restricted access or specific opening hours.

A beautiful old library that is worth the visit. There are some historical treasures contained. The shop is lovely and has a nice feel.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Very nice & unique building of NY Public Library. Have not been inside yet but will definitely go next time. Also, they offer a free guided tours throughout the building. Definitely worth to see, reminds me of libraries from magical movies ... ✨ …

Nice library. Great architecture. Somewhat crowded (tourist), so may not be ideal if you are looking for a quiet place (quiet rooms upstairs available). There is a gift store inside and they also have exhibit room with cool historic items

Discover the wonders of Manhattan's two iconic New York Public Libraries. These treasures are brimming with valuable historical books and cutting-edge audiovisual equipment, providing both entertainment and enriching learning experiences.

Beautiful library by Bryant park. It closed for a long time during pandemic, finally reopened. If you want to sit down and just read book they have a large selection of books for study and research. If you are visiting or just want to

This is a "must see" building, it is made of wall to wall marble and is so very magnificent. I am very happy that we went inside this building because it is just breathtaking. We went to both floors, it may have a 3rd floor, I'm not

So much history and architecture. Such a joy to visit. I found the original Winnie the Poo stuffed toys in the Treasures Room just for starters.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great waking experience. Several floors with changing displays. Each visit will have different things to see.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Great place to visit if you're in New York City. If you like libraries, this is one of the must visit places. They had some rare things on display from the library when we visited in June. There is a library gift shop inside.

Such a great visit! We got to snag free tickets to the Virginia Woolf exhibit and the new Polonsky exhibit that had a ton of rare and super interesting books, documents, and antiques! Make time for a tour of the Rose Room!

It’s breathtaking building. Architectural treasures. Very impressive. There is security check going in and when you’re leaving. Bryant park is right beside, it’s a lovely place to put your feet up and relax for a bite.

This place is a must see landmark in NYC. Trust me on this, take their tour. You'll get access to rooms only available to tours. The history, the architecture, the romance of it all is worth a visit...plus it's free.

House full of history. One of the sights of New York City, which you should have in the list.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

We walk around on our own, you can take a tour if you prefer. There is a gift shop and Cafe.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This place was pretty cool, the architecture was awesome. It's a nice piece on NYC history.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Grand exterior and beautiful interior. Free to go in. I don’t know if there are tours available but would be worth it to know it’s history and details. They won’t let you enter with large bags, like luggage.

Beautiful historic building with free entry, guided tours and a wonderful audio experience. Bring a book if you wish to visit the Rose reading room. Don’t forget to checkout the gift shop!

An oasis in the hustle and bustle big apple. Come here to fill your searching brain or heart or just to relax your feet. Perfect place to be quiet and learn

Went to see their exhibit on treasures of the library, had a great time! Stayed for about an hour. Definitely worth a visit just to walk around also

The New York Public Library is the largest public library system in the States, comprising 88 branch libraries and 4 academic research centres.

This place is a sight to behold. Beautiful and magnificent in so many ways. I could have spent a long time in here but we had to move on.

Nice architecture, high quality exhibitions, rare books collections and quite reading room in the bustling New York City midtown.

The building itself is stunning. Great free exhibit open to the public and a really nice bookstore/gift shop. A must see in NYC.

So pretty but unfortunately the Rose Room wasn't open - if it's important for you to see it you may want to check before going.

Beautiful exhibits, Cafe closes at 5 and exhibits at around 6. Plan accordingly. Bags inspected upon entering and leaving

Very neat historic building. Great architecture and a lot of history. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

The New York Public Library is a beautiful magical place. It is a must visit for all the people that go to New York.

Very interesting exhibits. It was fun to go around and see the different places where movies were filmed

I just visited there and the library was so huge and awesome. Definitely worth your time to visit.

Beautiful, historic library building, with great working areas