The New York Public Library is one of the largest libraries in the world. Despite the growing popularity of e-book reading on smartphones, tablets and computers, it is often crowded here. On Fifth Avenue in a white marble building is the main building of the repository of books and important documents. 87 branches of the institution with open access are located in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
History of creation
Former Governor Samuel Jones Tilden is considered one of the earliest patrons of the non-profit organization. The politician who ran for president of the United States has repeatedly said that the city needs a library covering the whole of New York so that everyone can develop by reading books freely. He left approximately $2.4 million for the creation and maintenance of the New York Public Library and a reading room.
The New York Public Library was organized as an independent corporation in the 19th century by combining all the funds of the public collection of reference books that belonged to millionaire John Astor and the private collection of philanthropist James Lennox. Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donated more than $5 million to open the library's branches in 1901 on the condition that they would be managed by the authorities. Then the library systems of Brooklyn and Queens refused grants, they thought if they agreed, they would lose their independence, and they would be treated differently from Manhattan libraries.
Short description
The New York Public Library has 53 million copies of printed materials at its disposal. There is a department of rare books, which includes works published before 1801. Also in this place you can study the American media that were published before 1865. Admission to the library is free, and tens of millions of people apply for a library card every year. The public library has 4 research libraries, which are also open to the public.
Films are shot here, TV shows, musical compositions are recorded, cultural and educational events are held. The New York Public Library has a website that provides access to an electronic catalog that informs about upcoming exhibitions, English language courses, or computer courses. Cardholders can use the catalog using their home computer.
Information for readers
Since 1968, a telephone information service has been operating, and the service's specialists provide answers by phone or via chats, mail, and the library's website. Questions from readers of the New York Public Library are accepted in English and Spanish. We receive various, sometimes even unpredictable requests. For example, one day a user from New Orleans called to find out how to recover a document that he had lost during a hurricane. Another user decided to ask about the history of Italian cheese with gorgonzola mold. The help desk accepts questions almost every day except Sundays and holidays. It's not uncommon to receive phone calls asking for help solving a word in a complex crossword puzzle or completing homework for students.
How to get
You need to arrive in the center of Manhattan at the intersection of 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue. The nearest metro stations are 5th Ave lines 7, 7th Express, Grand Central/42nd Street lines S. Buses M1, M2, M4, M5, M55 are suitable, which reach the stop 5 Av&W 41 St. Alternatively, you can consider taking a taxi or a rented car to the New York Public Library.
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