The Division holds over 29,000 linear feet of manuscripts and archives in over 5,500 collections. The strengths of the Division are the papers and records of individuals, families, and organizations, primarily from the New York region. These collections support research in the political, economic, social, and cultural history of New York and the United States. Learn more about this division.
About the Division
Visiting the Collection
Can researchers access the collection without an appointment?
Patrons are welcome to visit the reading room during opening hours to speak with a librarian in person about their research. However, advance notice is necessary to consult material. To request a research appointment, create a Special Collections Account, click on "Appointments → Make an Appointment," and follow the prompts—or email manuscripts@nypl.org.
Are virtual consultations available and are they required before making an onsite research appointment?
Researchers are welcome to book a virtual consultation with one of our librarians to discuss research needs via phone or video chat. However, this is not a requirement to book a research appointment
Who can researchers contact with further questions?
Please email us at manuscripts@nypl.org with any additional queries.
Request a Class Visit
Our staff welcomes students and instructors to explore the collections and resources at our landmark 42nd Street building. We work with instructors to design sessions that use the Library’s remarkable collections to foster creative inquiry, cultivate critical thinking, and develop information literacy skills. Learn more.
Featured
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Guide to locating manuscripts and archives
This research guide demonstrates how to use NYPL's online tools to locate archival material without a citation.
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Early American Manuscripts Project
Learn more about the Library's effort to digitize early American manuscript sources.
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John Bigelow papers
John Bigelow was a newspaper editor, diplomat, and author. His diaries are available digitally and span the years 1843 to 1911.
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New York Times Company records
The New York Times Company records document activities of the paper’s staff over the course of its history.
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United States Sanitary Commission records
The United States Sanitary Commission provided medical and sanitary assistance to Union volunteer forces during the Civil War.
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LGBTQ+ collections and AIDS/HIV collections
Over 100 collections pertain to the history and culture of gay men and lesbians, and to the history of the AIDS/HIV epidemic.
