P Kim

This is a NYC icon. The New York Public Library feels more like a museum than a library. You have to check out all the rooms and floors. Not all of it is accessible, but the the rooms open to the public are spectacular.

+3

Adam Ingraham

Beautiful architecture! The main entrance and main reading room are gorgeous. I read that the main reading room is only open to visitors from 10-10:50 during weekdays but I’m not sure if that accurate; we went at 10:30. The portraits across the main reading room are worth a look as well as the exhibits in the first floor. It’s currently decked out for Christmas. Be prepared for a bag search entering and exiting. Restrooms on 2nd floor. No fee to enter. Be prepared for crowds.

+4

Joseph Downey

So gorgeous. Worth just taking a nice quiet walk through. The building alone should be reason enough. Got to see the large room that was in Ghostbusters, got to see a free exhibit from the new Yorker (limited time) very worth the stop.

+4

John Yong

The library is more a museum than a library as it displays great collections. The Roman architecture is inspiring and remains ecstatic in its best form.

+30

Ivan Barrera

Ugh I wish I could have spent more time here. We were luck to be the last wave to be available to enter before it was close thst night. It is a beautiful building full of details and it's just huge. The view it's amazing, I just remember the day after tomorrow. Big fan. I would recommend this place, it is a must to go and check it out at least.

+2

Josh Edgar

Architecturally unbelievable building, a testament to what people can create when utility isn't the theme. The NYPL Treasures Gallery is quite amazing, such a varied array of items celebrating New York and arts, literature, and history. The original Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals! The handwritten George Washington Farewell Address! Dickens' writing desk, chair and lamp! A Gutenberg Bible! Audobon's original drawings! A quick free detour in NYC but kind of a must-see.

+8

Pam Buss

Very popular place to visit. Wonderful gift shop. You will go through security prior to entering. I took the Library's free tour which requires an advance sign up online. The tour was led by a volunteer. It was very informative and allowed access to the Rose Reading Room. The tour discusses the history, architecture and various rooms. Most rooms which are research and aren't open to the public. I also took the Library's free tour of the Polonsky Treasures Tour (sign up 15 minutes prior at exhibition entrance). Most important, I obtained a temporary library card!! I signed up online and had my application validated at a branch.

+30

Gee Cee

The New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is absolutely breathtaking. The architecture alone is worth the visit — grand staircases, elegant reading rooms, and those iconic lions at the entrance make it feel like stepping into history. The Rose Main Reading Room is stunning and incredibly peaceful, perfect for reading, studying, or just soaking in the atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the exhibits are well curated. A true New York gem and a must-visit for anyone who loves books, history, or beautiful spaces.

+20

Maya Taurus

So happy I finally got to visit the NY Public Library, it was so amazing to see! The lions outside were so cool and regal looking as if guarding the area. We went a little after they opened and there already was a lot of people but that's expected for a popular spot. Be mindful that it's still a library so there will be areas you're not allowed to access or take photos in. While most of the library and it's exhibits are free you may wanna schedule a tour to gain admittance to certain areas most of the visitors can't enter during certain times. Either way the architecture of the building is beautiful and amazing to see. There's lots to check out and I'd go again just to learn more about its history. Definitely a must see when you're in NY.

+27

Heather Boswick

Breath taking NYC history & architecture worth seeing! The library is steps away from Bryant Park so enjoy a lunch in the park before adventuring over! Simply stunning outside with grand staircase entry, fountains & so many photo ops. My fave spot was the stunning massive stone archways at the top of the steps before entering! The inside was just as grand with immaculate granite carved staircase & grand hallways with floor to ceiling windows. They have a really nice bookstore / cafe to check out while here!

+2

Yvonne Ramirez

Visiting the New York public library on 5th avenue was one of the highlights of my trip. The free exhibit was both engaging and beautiful curated, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich literary and cultural history. I was especially impressed by the stunning architecture- grand staircase, ornate ceilings, and the timeless elegance of the old building itself. It felt like stepping into a story book.

+14

Carla Cicarino

This library is breathtaking, magnificent. Stepping inside feels like entering a world that most people only ever see on the big screen. In fact, many famous movies and TV shows have been filmed here. It’s an experience worth having—don’t miss the charming shop filled with books, stationery, and delightful treasures that are sure to catch your eye. The artwork, the architecture, the very soul of the library are flawless. For book lovers and culture enthusiasts, this is a must-see. There is also an entire section dedicated to the history of literature, making the visit even more enriching.

+20

Shachar Ashkenazi

The New York Public Library at Bryant Park is absolutely stunning. It's a true NYC treasure. Beyond the iconic architecture, you’ll find beautiful art, historic murals, and rotating exhibits that make it more than just a library. The reading rooms are breathtaking, and the whole place feels like stepping into history.

+7

lisa berlin macquarie

Absolutely stunning building, the architecture is beautiful, ornate ceilings, pillars and chandeliers. We visited some great exhibitions. Really interesting place. Clean toilets and lifts to all floors. A wee gift shop which was reasonably priced. Well worth a visit ❤️😍❤️😍❤️ and it's free ❤️

+28

Savannah B.

Loved the Library, loved the different areas they have to offer and visit. Accessible entrance is off to the side for anyone looking. The only disappointing thing i found was that you can no longer go into certain areas without it being on a tour at certain hours of the day, and a few locations in the library were closed. Overall would visit again, it's beautiful, and there is so much History here.

+7

Daniel J

The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library, perfectly situated adjacent to Bryant Park, is an absolute must-see—and not just for bookworms. ​Interior & Atmosphere: I was genuinely surprised and impressed by the cleanliness and the sheer scale of the building. It spans three magnificent floors that are stunning to walk through. The staff members are clearly dedicated and were very welcoming and helpful, which makes exploring such a large, historic building a pleasant experience. ​Beyond Books: Even if you don't plan to spend the whole day in the reading rooms, it's worth a visit. You can easily stop by the ground-floor cafe and gift shop for a quick break or souvenir. The architecture and the iconic Rose Reading Room (when accessible) are attractions in themselves. ​A Note on the Exterior: While there is a highly visible "No Smoking" sign right outside the library doors, you will notice that this rule is, unfortunately, often overlooked by the public on the steps. ​Highly recommend stopping by to appreciate this beautiful, well-maintained civic treasure.