Top 10 Best New York Libraries to Spend a Day in

Believe it or not, New York libraries are among the most prestigious in the country. Maybe you're looking for a place to get some privacy with a new book, or you want to enjoy reading in the midst of magnificent architecture? From the famous New York Public Library in Midtown to lesser-known but no less beautiful places, you'll be in awe of the details and book collections these places offer. Secret nyc.

1. New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwartzman Building, Midtown

The most famous library in the Big Apple is the New York Public Library named after Stephen A. Schwartzman in Midtown. It is located in a beautiful building built in 1911. It took a whopping 16 years to design and at the time of construction it was the largest marble building ever built in the US at the time of its opening. In addition to the existing reading rooms, the library regularly hosts interesting exhibitions. Be sure to take a look!

Where: 5th Avenue and 42nd Street

website: https://www.nypl.org/

2. Morgan Library and Museum, Murray Hill

This architectural beauty was once the private library of John Pierpont Morgan. It was presented to the city in 1910, and then restored again in 2006. It has a collection of stunning historical pieces, including an early copy of Frankenstein and more. The library regularly hosts exhibitions and concerts of classical music.

Where: 225 Madison Ave, New York

website: https://www.themorgan.org/

On the subject: Stop Paying For It: Unexpected Things You Can Get For Free From Libraries

3. Brooklyn Public Library - Central Library, Brooklyn

The Central Library is perhaps the most famous reading room in Brooklyn. Its architecture resembles an open book. The 1941 Art Deco building is located across from Grand Army Plaza. Its outdoor area hosts many events and concerts. The huge lobby is worth a visit, and the extensive modern and historical collections are well worth spending a few hours here.

Where: 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn

Website: https://www.bklynlibrary.org/

4. Jefferson Market Library, Greenwich Village

The Jefferson Market Library has been a staple in Greenwich Village for many years. And why not, if it looks like a medieval castle? Stained-glass windows, carved doorways, a square and much more amaze the imagination both inside and outside. Initially, the building housed a court, which makes it even more mysterious. There is a reading room for adults, a children's room on the ground floor, and a beautiful brick basement called the Reference Room.

Where: 425 Avenue of the Americas, New York

website: https://www.nypl.org/locations/jefferson-market

5. New York Academy of Medicine, Upper East Side

New York Medical Academy has been open to visitors for over 140 years. It is one of the most significant historical libraries for medicine and public health in the world. We are talking about all kinds of medical documents and artifacts that tell about the history of healthcare in our country: from magazines on smallpox to recipes for ancient medicines. There are many health related events that you can attend!

Where: 1216 5th Ave, New York

website: https://www.nyam.org/library/

6. New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Square

Located in Lincoln Center, this library is more about performing arts than books, but it's still worth a visit! Its building houses the Billy Rose Theater Collection (one of the world's largest scientific collections in the field of theater, film, dance, music and sound recording). Various events are constantly held here, as well as discussions and exhibitions dedicated to the art of performance.

Where: 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York (entrance at 111 Amsterdam between 64th and 65th streets).

website: https://www.nypl.org/locations/schwarzman

7. House of Poets, Battery Park City

As the name suggests, Poets House is a poet's dream and a great place for inspiration. Its building is located right next to Rockefeller Park with great views of the Hudson River. Aspiring poets and writers often visit this place to browse over 70 volumes of literature and write their own pieces. In addition, there are many programs for both children and adults who want to immerse themselves in the world of poetry.

Where: 10 River Terrace, New York

website: https://poetshouse.org/

8. New York Society Library, Upper East Side

Another library on the Upper Easter Side is the New York Society Library. This is the oldest library in New York, opened in 1754. More than 300 volumes of information are stored here. You can sit for free in cozy reading rooms. But in order to borrow any book, you must become a member of the community. There are free exhibitions and events that are open to everyone!

Where: 53 E 79th St, New York

website: https://www.nysoclib.org/

9. Butler Library, Morningside Heights

The Butler Library is located on the Morningside campus of Columbia University. From the outside, it looks like a European facade. Once you get a guest pass, you can find tons of resources and books in her collection. With over 2 million books stored in a maze of shelving, you'll be in awe of reading quotes from writers and philosophers such as Homer and Dante on the walls. This gorgeous library just exudes an Ivy League vibe.

Where: 535 W 114th St, New York

Website: https://library.columbia.edu/libraries/butler.html

10. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, Midtown

The brand new library of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation has just undergone a major renovation and is now one of the favorites. The library offers many services and resources, including unlimited viewing, seating, access to computers, a free public rooftop terrace, and more. In addition, face-to-face programs and classes will begin this summer! Here, among other things, there is a Thomas Yoseloff business center with additional research materials and services!

Where: 455 5th Ave, New York

website: https://www.nypl.org/locations/snfl