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The New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for any tourist interested in art, architecture, history, or literature. The building, located on Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and other rare and valuable materials that date back centuries.
One of the main attractions of the library is the Rose Main Reading Room, a stunning, two-block-long space with 52-foot ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and rows upon rows of oak tables and green reading lamps. Visitors can take guided tours of the library to learn about its history, architecture, and collections, or explore on their own and marvel at the building's grandeur.
In addition to its literary treasures, the library also hosts rotating exhibits on a wide range of topics, from photography and fashion to social justice and activism. The library's gift shop and café offer a chance to take a piece of the institution home with you, whether it's a literary-themed souvenir or a tasty treat.
At a Glance
Time Needed: 60 min.
Ages: All
Allows Food/Drink: No
Luggage Storage: No
476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018 Get Directions
New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building Videos
Former Cullman Fellow Hernan Diaz talks about writing his Pulitzer Prize winning novel 'Trust' at The New York Public Library, where he had unlimited access to our research collections during his 2020–2021 Fellowship. Learn more at https://nypl.org/digitalguide
Harvard professor, Library Trustee, and Former Cullman Fellow Annette Gordon-Reed shares the research she conducted at The New York Public Library for her multiple nonfiction books on Thomas Jefferson, his home at Monticello, and the people enslaved there. Learn more at https://nypl.org/digitalguide
Former Cullman Fellow Sally Wen Mao talks about the experience of researching at The New York Public Library while she wrote her volumes of poetry, “Oculus” and “The Kingdom of Surfaces,” and her upcoming short story collection, “Ninetails." Learn more at https://nypl.org/digitalguide
The new novel by the award-winning author tells an overlooked story of women’s heroism in World War II, inspired by the experiences of his own mother. For event details and more, visit https://www.nypl.org/events/programs/2023/06/27/luisalbertourrea GET THE BOOK - NYPL Catalog: https://ilsstaff.nypl.org/search~S1/?searchtype=X&searcharg=good+night+irene - - The Library Shop — proceeds benefit The New York Public Library: https://shop.nypl.org/collections/events-books/products/good-night-irene-1 LIVE FROM NYPL - Upcoming Events: https://nypl.org/live - Sign up for our newsletters: https://pages.email.nypl.org/updates When Irene Woodward abandons an abusive fiancé to enlist with the Red Cross in 1943, she joins an elite group of women, nicknamed Donut Dollies, who command military vehicles called Clubmobiles at the front line, providing camaraderie and a taste of home that may be the only solace before troops head into battle. She forges a friendship with Dorothy Dunford, a towering Midwesterner with a ferocious wit, and falls in love with a courageous American fighter pilot named Hans. Urrea’s “heart-wrenching wartime drama” follows Irene as she re-learns how to trust, all while hoping that she and those she loves survive the war intact. Luis Alberto Urrea speaks about his “moving and graceful tribute to heroic women” that asks whether a friendship forged on the front lines of war defines a life forever. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for his landmark work of nonfiction The Devil’s Highway, now in its thirty-fourth paperback printing, Luis Alberto Urrea is the author of numerous other works of nonfiction, poetry, and fiction, including the national bestsellers The Hummingbird’s Daughter and The House of Broken Angels, a National Book Critics Circle Award finalist. A recipient of an American Academy of Arts and Letters Award, among many other honors, he lives outside Chicago and teaches at the University of Illinois Chicago. The New York Public Library welcomes your comments and invites you to participate in conversations on NYPL social media platforms. To make the experience better for all of our social media followers, we ask that you keep your comments relevant to the original post. Off-topic comments may be removed to ensure that the conversation remains productive.
The pioneering street photographer who reshaped the use of color recounts the story of his life and career. For event details and more, visit https://www.nypl.org/events/programs/2023/05/31/chaingangallstars GET THE BOOK - NYPL Catalog: http://ilsstaff.nypl.org/search~S1?/tthe+pleasure+of+seeing/tpleasure+of+seeing/1%2C2%2C2%2CB/frameset&FF=tpleasure+of+seeing+conversations+with+joel+meyerowitz+on+sixty+years+in+the+life+of+photography&1%2C1%2C/indexsort=- LIVE FROM NYPL - Upcoming Events: https://nypl.org/live - Sign up for our newsletters: https://pages.email.nypl.org/updates Joel Meyerowitz began capturing life on the streets of New York in 1962, and since then his camera has taken him across America, Europe, and beyond. In his new book Meyerowitz goes behind the scenes of his storied life and career with historian and photographer Lorenzo Braca. The Pleasure of Seeing (Damiani, 2023) hops from stories behind many of Meyerowitz’s famous photographs to the value of the visual image down to technical details about lenses, printing, and film. Meyerowitz and Braca discuss The Pleasure of Seeing and Meyerowitz’s legendary career, and share some of the 100+ images from the book, everything from iconic photographs to previously unpublished material. This event is presented as the annual conversation on photography generously underwritten by Mahnaz Ispahani Bartos and Adam Bartos. ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Joel Meyerowitz is an award-winning photographer whose work has appeared in over 350 exhibitions in museums and galleries around the world. Celebrated as a pioneer of color photography beginning in 1962, he is a two-time Guggenheim Fellow, a recipient of both the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities awards, and a recipient of The Royal Photographic Society’s Centenary Medal. He was the only photographer allowed inside Ground Zero where he worked for 9 months creating the history of the monumental recovery efforts. He has published 46 books. Joel Meyerowitz is represented by Howard Greenberg Gallery in New York, Polka Galerie in Paris and Huxley-Parlour Gallery in London. Meyerowitz lives and works in New York and London. Lorenzo Braca, Ph.D. is an Italian historian and photographer who has published widely on the literature, the mentality, and the imagination of the late Middle Ages. He is currently working for the Catholic University of Milan and for the University of Poznań. As a photographer, his work is oriented primarily towards the urban environment and its evolution. Braca’s photographs have been exhibited in various collective shows, and in 2021 he had his first solo exhibition. The New York Public Library welcomes your comments and invites you to participate in conversations on NYPL social media platforms. To make the experience better for all of our social media followers, we ask that you keep your comments relevant to the original post. Off-topic comments may be removed to ensure that the conversation remains productive.
More in Midtown
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New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest subway stops to New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
The closest subway stops to the New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at 476 5th Ave are:
1. Bryant Park Station: This station is served by the B, D, F, and M trains. It is located just a short walk from the library, making it a convenient option.
2. 42nd Street - Grand Central Station: This station is served by the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S trains. From here, you can take a pleasant walk along 42nd Street to reach the library.
As for recommendations, visiting the New York Public Library is a must for any book lover or history enthusiast. The iconic building itself is a sight to behold, and the library houses an impressive collection of books, manuscripts, and artifacts. Be sure to check out the Rose Main Reading Room, which is a stunning space to study or simply admire.
While you're in the area, I recommend exploring Bryant Park, which is right behind the library. It's a beautiful park with lush greenery, a carousel, and plenty of seating areas. In the winter, you can also enjoy ice skating on the park's rink.
For subway updates and service changes, you can visit the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at www.mta.info. They provide real-time updates on subway service and any planned maintenance or delays.
What's the best way to get to New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building by bus?
The closest NYC bus stops to the New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at 476 5th Ave are:
1. 5th Ave/W 42 St: Serviced by M1, M2, M3, M4 buses. This stop is located right in front of the library.
- [M1 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m001cur.pdf)
- [M2 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m002cur.pdf)
- [M3 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m003cur.pdf)
- [M4 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m004cur.pdf)
2. Madison Ave/E 41 St: Serviced by M1, M2, M3, M4 buses. This stop is just a short walk away from the library.
- [M1 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m001cur.pdf)
- [M2 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m002cur.pdf)
- [M3 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m003cur.pdf)
- [M4 Bus Schedule](http://web.mta.info/nyct/bus/schedule/manh/m004cur.pdf)
Please note that bus schedules are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the MTA website for the most up-to-date information. Enjoy your visit to the New York Public Library!
How much time should I plan to spend at New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building?
The ideal length of time to plan to spend at the New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building depends on your interests and the amount of time you have available. If you're a book lover or history enthusiast, you could easily spend several hours exploring the vast collection and beautiful architecture of this iconic library.
If you're short on time, a quick visit to admire the grandeur of the building and snap some photos can be done in about 30 minutes. However, I highly recommend allocating at least an hour or two to fully appreciate the library's treasures.
The library offers free guided tours, which typically last around 60 minutes and provide a fascinating insight into its history and notable features. If you're interested in taking a tour, it's a good idea to check the library's website or call ahead to confirm the schedule.
Whether you're a bookworm or simply curious about this cultural landmark, the New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is definitely worth a visit during your time in New York City.
Can I bring food and drinks into New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building?
The New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a wonderful place to explore and immerse yourself in the world of literature and knowledge. While it doesn't have a specific food and drink policy, it is generally expected that visitors refrain from consuming food or beverages inside the library.
However, there is a café located in the library's Astor Hall where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee. It's a great spot to take a break and refuel during your visit.
Just remember to be respectful of the library's historic and cultural significance, and help maintain a clean and quiet environment for everyone to enjoy.
Does New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building offer luggage storage?
The New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, does not offer luggage storage facilities. As a popular tourist attraction and research library, their primary focus is on providing access to their vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other resources.
However, if you find yourself in need of luggage storage while visiting the library or exploring the nearby area, there are several options available. Many hotels offer luggage storage services for their guests, even if you are not staying there. Additionally, there are several independent luggage storage companies located throughout the city that provide secure storage for a fee.
Before visiting the library, I recommend checking with your hotel or doing a quick search online to find the nearest luggage storage facility that suits your needs. This way, you can enjoy your visit to the New York Public Library and explore the city without the burden of carrying your bags.
Is New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?
Yes, the New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is definitely worth a visit for visitors from other countries, including non-English language speakers. While the library is renowned for its vast collection of books, it offers much more than just reading material.
The library itself is a stunning architectural masterpiece, with its iconic lion statues guarding the entrance on Fifth Avenue. Inside, you'll find a wealth of resources and exhibits that cater to a diverse range of interests. The library's exhibitions often explore topics of global significance, making it a fascinating destination for international visitors.
Additionally, the library offers guided tours in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Mandarin. These tours provide a great opportunity to learn about the library's history, architecture, and notable collections.
For non-English language speakers, the library also provides access to a variety of materials in different languages. You can find books, newspapers, magazines, and digital resources in languages such as Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and more. The library's staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always ready to assist visitors in finding the information they need, regardless of language barriers.
So whether you're interested in exploring the library's vast collection, immersing yourself in its cultural exhibitions, or simply marveling at its grandeur, the New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a must-visit destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers.
What ages are appropriate for New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building?
The New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages! While it may not have specific age restrictions, the library offers a wide range of exhibits, programs, and resources that cater to various interests and age groups.
For families with young children, the Children's Center at the library is a must-visit. It features a vast collection of children's books, interactive exhibits, and engaging activities that will captivate young minds.
Teens and adults can explore the library's extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and historical artifacts. The iconic Rose Main Reading Room is a breathtaking space that is sure to inspire book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Additionally, the library often hosts exhibitions, lectures, and workshops that cater to different age groups. These events provide unique opportunities to learn, engage, and immerse oneself in the world of literature and knowledge.
So, whether you're a parent looking to introduce your child to the joy of reading or an adult seeking intellectual stimulation, the New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building has something for everyone.
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