New York Public Library: History, Highlights & Visitor Guide

TLDR: The New York Public Library is a must-visit for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, free entry, iconic Rose Main Reading Room, historical collections, and famous lion statues. It offers both quiet contemplation and a glimpse into NYC's rich past, ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and curious travelers.

Stepping into the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue, you immediately feel a sense of grandeur and history. As a recent visitor, I can tell you this isn't just a building; it's an experience. 

This article will walk you through its fascinating origins, what makes it a world-renowned landmark, how you can explore its halls, and whether it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Get ready to discover the secrets and practicalities of visiting one of New York City's most treasured institutions.

What is the story behind New York Public Library?

The story of this grand institution began with a vision for public education, funded by private generosity. In 1895, three existing libraries – Astor, Lenox, and a bequest from Governor Samuel J. Tilden – merged to create a free public library for New Yorkers. This act of philanthropy laid the foundation for one of the world's most significant library systems.

The main branch, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, opened its doors in 1911. Its architects, Carrère and Hastings, designed a magnificent Beaux-Arts structure that, at the time, was the largest marble building in the United States. 

Flanking its imposing entrance, you’ll see the famous stone lions, affectionately named "Patience" and "Fortitude" by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia during the Great Depression. They symbolized the resilience New Yorkers needed during hard times. 

Today, the library stands as a vibrant cultural center, providing free access to knowledge and fostering community, particularly for those who might not otherwise have such resources. Knowing this history makes its fame even more understandable.

What makes New York Public Library famous?

Beyond its noble origins, the New York Public Library is famous for several reasons. 

• Its sheer architectural beauty is a major draw. The Beaux-Arts design, with its imposing facade and intricate details, was once the largest marble structure of its kind. 
• Of course, the stone lions, Patience and Fortitude, are immediately recognizable to many, embodying the spirit of the city. Inside, the library truly comes alive. 
• The Rose Main Reading Room, with its soaring, mural-adorned ceilings, stretches almost the length of a football field. It's a breathtaking space for quiet study or just looking up in awe. 
• The library also houses extraordinary items, from a Gutenberg Bible to the original Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed animals. 
• Its majestic interior and exterior have graced the screens of many movies, including "Ghostbusters". 
• You might not realize that millions of its books are tucked away in a vast underground facility beneath the adjacent Bryant Park. 

This blend of history, architecture, and unique collections makes it a global icon. With all this to see, you might wonder if you can simply walk in and explore.

Can I just walk in to the New York Public Library?

Absolutely, you can simply walk into the New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Admission is completely free, which is fantastic for any traveler on a budget. You don't need a library card just to enter, admire the architecture, or browse the current exhibitions in the public areas.

While general entry is free and easy, some specific experiences require a bit more planning. For example, if you want to join a guided tour or experience the quiet grandeur of the Rose Main Reading Room up close, you might need to book a free, timed ticket online. These tickets help manage visitor numbers for these popular spaces. 

As you step inside, you'll quickly feel the cool air and see the polished marble floors, a stark contrast to the busy city street outside. The lions, Patience and Fortitude, welcome you even before you enter. Once inside, you'll naturally be drawn to what many consider its centerpiece.

What is the most famous room in the New York Public Library?

Without a doubt, the most famous room in the New York Public Library is the magnificent Rose Main Reading Room. Located on the third floor of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, this Beaux-Arts space is truly enormous, stretching 297 feet long and 78 feet wide – nearly the length of two city blocks. Your eyes will immediately be drawn to its 52-foot-tall ceilings, adorned with stunning murals depicting vibrant skies and billowy clouds.

For over a century, this room has been a haven for countless writers, scholars, and students, including Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners. It's more than just a beautiful sight; it functions as a working research space. Here, patrons can access materials from the Milstein Stacks, an extensive underground storage facility located right beneath Bryant Park. You might even recognize this grand room from its appearance in films like the original "Ghostbusters."

Was Ghostbusters filmed in the New York Public Library?

Yes, the iconic New York Public Library was famously featured in the opening scene of the original 1984 "Ghostbusters" movie. If you remember that memorable sequence where a librarian encounters the first ghost and books start flying, that was set right here. The exterior shots of the majestic Beaux-Arts building, with its famous stone lions, Patience and Fortitude, were filmed on location.

However, here’s a bit of movie magic trivia: while the library's exterior and some scenes implying its main reading room were used, many of the spooky interior shots of haunted stacks and library basements were actually filmed across the country at the Los Angeles Central Library. 

The New York Public Library has a long history in film, appearing in productions like "Sex and the City" and "Spider-Man." Its distinctive presence has made it a favorite backdrop, even playing a role in the recent "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire." Knowing its cinematic history, you might be asking yourself if it’s truly worth visiting.

Is it worth visiting New York Public Library?

Absolutely, the New York Public Library is certainly worth your time. For architecture enthusiasts and history buffs, its Beaux-Arts design, from the grand marble staircase to the detailed ceilings, is a feast for the eyes. The iconic lion statues, "Patience" and "Fortitude," offer a perfect photo opportunity right at the entrance.

Inside, you can admire the magnificent Rose Main Reading Room, even if just for a quick peek (check for timed ticket requirements). The Polonsky Exhibition of Treasures also offers a glimpse into rare historical items, like the original Winnie-the-Pooh toys and Thomas Jefferson's copy of the Declaration of Independence. The hushed atmosphere, with the faint rustle of pages and quiet murmurs, creates a unique sensory experience.

However, keep in mind it's primarily a research library, not a place to browse and borrow novels, which might not be what every visitor expects. It can also get quite crowded, especially on weekends. Many areas are restricted, making it feel more like a museum than a typical public library. To easily prioritize what to see in New York, you can use The Personal Tour Guide for audio stories about the city's key landmarks.

What else can I do in New York?

After soaking up the quiet grandeur of the New York Public Library, you'll find yourself in a prime location to explore more of New York's Midtown area. 

• Right behind the library, you can step into Bryant Park, a vibrant urban oasis. Depending on the season, you might find an ice skating rink, outdoor movies, or just a perfect spot to relax and people-watch after your library visit.
• A short walk east leads you to Grand Central Terminal, another architectural marvel. Don't just rush through; look up at the celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse, find the whispering gallery, and take in the sheer scale of the place. 
• For another dose of literary history, head south to the Morgan Library & Museum. This exquisite institution, once J.P. Morgan's private library, houses rare books and art in a beautifully preserved setting. 
• A few blocks north, Rockefeller Center offers stunning city views from Top of the Rock, plus iconic seasonal attractions. 

To get a comprehensive overview of the city, including both top attractions and hidden gems, use StoryHunt as your personal audio guide, providing captivating stories as you explore.