Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street
New York, NY 10018
917-275-6975
Directions
Fully Accessible

Enter the building via the main entrance on Fifth Avenue, or the accessible entrances at 40th Street and 42nd Street.

See Accessibility Details
Open today
10 AM–6 PM
Regular Hours
Day Hours
Monday 10 AM–6 PM
Tuesday 10 AM–8 PM
Wednesday 10 AM–8 PM
Thursday 10 AM–6 PM
Friday 10 AM–6 PM
Saturday 10 AM–6 PM
Sunday 1 PM–5 PM
Division hours may vary.
2024 Holiday Closings

The New York Public Library’s flagship location, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is one of the Library’s premier research centers, renowned for its extraordinary historical collections and its commitment to providing free and equal access to its resources. 

Some reading rooms, including the historic Rose Main Reading Room, are open to the public for research and quiet study without an appointment while some collections require advance consultation with staff and/or an appointment to view.

To find out if you need to make an appointment for your research needs and more about how to view our collections, please explore our divisions and centers below. If you are not sure which division is right for your research, please contact Ask NYPL for assistance. Read the general regulations for our research centers.

Please Note: As part of the Library's Midtown Renovation, we are in the process of upgrading, renovating, and adding more public space to the Schwarzman Building to prepare this historic library for future research, exhibitions, and programs. We remain focused on limiting the impact of this work on public service, but we do ask for patience and understanding in instances of noise or any other disruption during your visit.

 

Explore Divisions & Centers

Further Resources & Education at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

More NYPL Resources

  • Get NYPL Updates

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  • E-Books & E-Audiobooks

    Explore e-books and e-audiobooks available for free from NYPL—from children's books to bestsellers.

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  • Online Classes & Events

    People of all ages can engage with the Library through our online classes, programs, book clubs, and more.

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  • Community Support Resources

    During these challenging times, the Library is here to help our communities to find the resources they need.

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  • The Library Shop

    Purchases at the Library Shop directly support the Library's invaluable programs and services.

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Accessibility Details

The New York Public Library strives to ensure that everyone has access to the full range of information, services, and programs that are offered at the Library. Learn more.

All public service units of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building are wheelchair accessible. A ramp entrance to the building is located at 42nd Street, and a street-level accessible entrance is available at 40th Street. All levels of the building are accessible by an elevator at the north end of the building.

If you require an additional accommodation on site, please speak to a staff member. For more information or for an accommodation, please email accessibility@nypl.org. To learn more about the accessibility of NYPL websites and mobile applications, see our Web & Mobile Accessibility Policy.

Please Note:

  • As part of the Library's Midtown Renovation, we are in the process of upgrading, renovating, and adding more public space to the Schwarzman Building to prepare this historic library for future research, exhibitions, and programs. Currently, we are working on upgrades to the building’s cooling tower and HVAC system, as well as improvements to building circulation and flow with the addition of a new elevator and staircase. We remain focused on limiting the impact of this work on public service, but we do ask for patience and understanding in instances of noise or any other disruption during your visit.

     
  • Due to new Library policy, e-bikes, e-scooters, and electronic transportation devices are not permitted inside any NYPL location. This does not apply to mobility aids.