Visit the New York Public Library flagship

Main Library Branch Overview

The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the main library branch, is a magnet for book lovers, history enthusiasts, and architecture admirers. Visitors often make a stop at the Bryant Park landmark to greet Patience and Fortitude (the iconic marble lions guarding the entrance) and to appreciate its beautiful beaux-arts design.

Highlights

For those in the mood for reading, this branch boasts an extensive collection of maps, special collections of English and American literature, English Romanticism, and rare books. Additionally, the library hosts several lecture programs, special exhibitions, and displays.

Rose Main Reading Room and Tours

To delve deeper into the library's history and architecture, or to see the magnificent Rose Main Reading Room, consider joining one of the free hour-long docent-led tours. These tours are available Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Although the tours are free, tickets must be reserved in advance online, with new tickets released every Sunday for the upcoming week.

Directions

To reach the library, take the B, D, F, or M subway train to the 42nd Street-Bryant Park stop, or the 7 train to the Fifth Avenue station.

Hours

The main branch operates daily but its hours vary. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the branch extends its hours until 8 p.m. On Sundays, the library is open from 1 to 5 p.m.

For more detailed information, visit the official library website.