New York Public Library (Main Branch)

The Basics

The century-old building, known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, houses an enormous collection of volumes relating to humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. The library is a staple of sightseeing tours and architecture-themed walking tours of the midtown area; some movie-themed tours also stop at the library to see where key scenes fromGhostbusters andBreakfast at Tiffany’s were filmed. Inside, explore exhibition spaces where displays spotlight influential writers and NYC history.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The New York Public Library is a must for book lovers, who can walk right in off the street and explore.

• Tours leave from the reception in Astor Hall, and are available on a first-come basis.

• The library is a functioning research library so remain quiet in reading rooms and silence your phone.

• The library is stroller- and wheelchair- accessible. Ramped access is available at the 42nd Street entrance.

• There’s free Wi-Fi, public restrooms, and a water fountain at the library.

How to Get There

The main branch of the New York Public Library is on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street. Nearby subway stops include 42nd Street–Bryant Park/Fifth Avenue Station (7, B, D, F, and M trains), and Grand Central–42nd Street (4, 5, 6, 7, and S).

When to Get There

The library is busiest between June and September, and during the holiday season. Go on a midweek morning to experience it at its calmest. Free 1-hour guided tours take place at 11am and 2pm Monday-Saturday, and at 2pm on Sundays.

The Rose Main Reading Room

Situated on the third floor, the Rose Main Reading Room is hailed as the highlight of the lavish library. Stretching for the length of approximately two city blocks, this elaborate space features overhead murals depicting the sky, carved oak tables, and hanging chandeliers.

Ways to explore

You can pop into the flagship New York Public Library any time during opening hours to read, study, and stroll through the stacks, but the best way to learn about its history is to book a guided tour. The library is a staple of sightseeing tours and architecture-themed walking tours of the Midtown area; some movie-themed tours also stop by to see where key scenes from Ghostbusters and Breakfast at Tiffany’s were filmed. Inside, you can explore exhibition spaces where displays spotlight influential writers and NYC history.

Accessibility

The library is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Ramped access is available at the 42nd Street entrance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring headphones for listening to the building’s audio tours or music while you read and study.

What to wear

Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the multistory structure, and bring layers in case it’s chilly inside.

Not allowed

Electronic transportation devices (such as e-bikes and e-scooters), talking inside reading areas, outside food and drink, bulky bags, writing on library materials, flash photography

Amenities

Visitor center, gift shop, café, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, audio guides

Address

The New York Public Library flagship is located on Midtown Manhattan’s iconic Fifth Avenue, a short walk from top attractions such as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square. If you’re coming from farther away, it’s easy to reach via car or public transportation.

Driving

Rather than trying to navigate New York City’s hectic traffic and search for expensive parking, it’s better to take a taxi or rideshare to the library—it’s within a 30-minute drive of Manhattan’s main attractions.

Public transportation

Subway stations near the library include 42nd Street–Bryant Park/Fifth Avenue, Times Square–42nd Street, and Grand Central–42nd Street, which means you can reach the attraction via most train lines through the city.

Best times to visit

The New York Public Library is usually open from morning to evening—go in the early afternoon to get a break from the midday sun.

Best days to visit

While the library is always quiet, it’s busiest on Saturdays, so plan to visit another day to explore the stacks in relative solitude.

Best months to visit

Visiting the library is a great activity year-round, though New York City’s weather is at its best from March–May and September–November.

Special events

The New York Public Library offers events throughout the year, such as the springtime World Literature & Arts Festival, which features readings, performances, and more.