The New York City Public Library (NYPL) was established in 1895 through a merger of two existing libraries, the Astor Library and the Lenox Library. The Astor Library, founded in 1848 by John Jacob Astor, was a free public library that focused on serving the working class. The Lenox Library, founded in 1870 by James Lenox, was a private research library that catered to scholars and researchers.
The merger of these two libraries was proposed by Samuel J. Tilden, a wealthy lawyer and philanthropist, who wanted to create a world-class public library for the city of New York. The New York State Legislature approved the merger in 1895 and the NYPL was officially established.
The main reason for the establishment of the NYPL was to provide free access to knowledge and information for all residents of New York City, regardless of their social or economic status. The library aimed to serve as a center for education, research, and cultural enrichment for the community.
Today, the NYPL is one of the largest public library systems in the world, with 92 locations throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. It continues to fulfill its mission of providing free and open access to information, resources, and programs for the diverse population of New York City.
1. General Collection: This collection includes a wide range of books on various subjects such as literature, history, science, art, and more.
2. Children's Collection: This collection is specifically designed for children and includes books for all age groups, from picture books to young adult novels.
3. Teen Collection: This collection caters to the reading interests of teenagers and includes books on popular young adult genres such as fantasy, romance, and dystopian fiction.
4. Reference Collection: This collection includes dictionaries, encyclopedias, atlases, and other reference materials for research and information purposes.
5. Special Collections: The library has several special collections, including the Berg Collection of English and American Literature, the Dorot Jewish Division, and the Manuscripts and Archives Division.
6. Rare Books Collection: This collection includes rare and valuable books, manuscripts, and other materials that are not available in the general collection.
7. Multilingual Collection: The library has a vast collection of books in different languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and more.
8. Audiovisual Collection: This collection includes audiobooks, DVDs, and other multimedia materials for borrowing.
9. Digital Collection: The library also offers a wide range of e-books, audiobooks, and other digital resources that can be accessed online.
10. Periodicals Collection: The library has a large collection of magazines, newspapers, and journals covering various topics and interests.
The New York City Public Library, located in the heart of Manhattan, is home to a vast collection of rare books, history archives, and manuscripts. With over 53 million items in its collection, the library is a treasure trove for researchers, scholars, and book lovers alike.
Some of the rare books available at the library include a first edition of William Shakespeare's "First Folio," published in 1623, and a Gutenberg Bible, one of only 49 surviving copies in the world. The library also has a collection of rare books from the 15th and 16th centuries, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo, and Copernicus.
The history archives at the library cover a wide range of topics, including American history, New York City history, and world history. The library has a collection of over 1.5 million photographs, including rare images of New York City from the 19th and 20th centuries. The archives also include historical documents, such as the original draft of the Declaration of Independence and the Emancipation Proclamation.
In addition to rare books and history archives, the library also has a vast collection of manuscripts. These include handwritten letters and documents from notable figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander Hamilton. The library also has a collection of literary manuscripts, including drafts and notes from authors such as Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf, and Jack Kerouac.
The library's rare books, history archives, and manuscripts are available for research and viewing by the public. Visitors can request to view specific items in the library's reading rooms, or they can access digital versions of some materials online. The library also hosts exhibitions and events showcasing its rare books and archives, providing a unique opportunity for the public to engage with these valuable resources.
In conclusion, the New York City Public Library is a treasure trove of rare books, history archives, and manuscripts. Its collection offers a glimpse into the past and provides a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and book lovers. Whether you are interested in literature, history, or simply curious about the world, the library's rare books and archives are sure to captivate and inspire.

Services:

1. Access to a vast collection of books and other materials: The New York City Public Library offers its subscribers and community members access to a vast collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials. This includes both physical and digital resources.
2. Online resources and databases: The library provides access to a wide range of online resources and databases, including ebooks, audiobooks, music, videos, and research databases. These resources can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
3. Computer and internet access: The library offers free computer and internet access to its subscribers and community members. This is especially beneficial for those who do not have access to these resources at home.
4. Educational and cultural programs: The library organizes various educational and cultural programs for subscribers and community members. These include workshops, lectures, book clubs, film screenings, and other events.
5. Job search and career development resources: The library offers resources and services to help subscribers and community members with job search and career development. This includes resume building workshops, job fairs, and access to job search databases.
6. Language learning resources: The library provides access to language learning resources, including books, audio materials, and online programs. This is beneficial for those looking to learn a new language or improve their language skills.
7. Children and teen services: The library offers a variety of services for children and teens, including storytime sessions, homework help, and summer reading programs. It also has a dedicated teen space with resources and programs specifically for teenagers.
8. Access to special collections and archives: The library has a number of special collections and archives, including rare books, manuscripts, and historical documents. Subscribers and community members can access these collections for research purposes.
9. Community events and partnerships: The library partners with local organizations and community groups to organize events and programs that benefit the community. These include health fairs, financial literacy workshops, and community discussions.
10. Library card benefits: Subscribers and community members with a library card can access additional benefits, such as free museum passes, discounted tickets to cultural events, and access to online learning platforms.

Things To Do:

1. "The ABC of It: Why Children's Books Matter" Exhibition - This exhibition explores the history and impact of children's literature through a collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artwork.
2. "Love & Resistance: Stonewall 50" Exhibition - This exhibition commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and showcases the LGBTQ+ community's fight for equality through photographs, posters, and other artifacts.
3. "The New York Public Library at 125" Exhibition - Celebrating the library's 125th anniversary, this exhibition features highlights from the library's vast collections, including rare books, manuscripts, and photographs.
4. Author Talks and Book Signings - The library regularly hosts talks and book signings with popular authors, giving readers the opportunity to meet and engage with their favorite writers.
5. Book Club Meetings - The library offers a variety of book clubs for all ages and interests, providing a space for book lovers to discuss and analyze literature.
6. Poetry Readings - The library hosts regular poetry readings featuring both established and emerging poets, providing a platform for the community to appreciate and engage with poetry.
7. Film Screenings - The library screens a variety of films, from classic to contemporary, as part of its film series. Many screenings are followed by discussions with filmmakers or experts in the field.
8. Musical Performances - The library hosts concerts and musical performances featuring a diverse range of genres, from classical to jazz to world music.
9. Workshops and Classes - The library offers a variety of workshops and classes on topics such as writing, language learning, and technology skills.
10. Family Programs - The library hosts events and activities for families and children, including storytimes, craft workshops, and educational programs.

1. Respect the library's rules and regulations: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the library's rules and regulations before entering. This includes guidelines on noise levels, food and drink policies, and use of electronic devices.
2. Keep your voice down: The library is a place for quiet study and reading, so be mindful of your volume when speaking to others or on the phone. If you need to have a conversation, step outside or use designated talking areas.
3. Use headphones: If you need to listen to audio or watch videos, make sure to use headphones. This will prevent disturbing others around you.
4. Handle books and materials with care: The library's collection is a valuable resource, so make sure to handle books and materials with care. Avoid writing or marking in books, and return them to their proper place after use.
5. Keep your belongings with you: Do not leave your personal belongings unattended. If you need to step away, take your belongings with you or ask a staff member to watch them for you.
6. Use designated study areas: The library may have designated areas for quiet study, group study, or computer use. Make sure to use these areas accordingly and respect the needs of others around you.
7. Be mindful of personal hygiene: The library is a shared space, so make sure to practice good personal hygiene. Avoid strong scents, and if you are feeling unwell, consider staying home to prevent spreading illness to others.
8. Follow copyright laws: When using library resources, make sure to follow copyright laws and give proper credit to sources. Plagiarism is not tolerated in the library.
9. Ask for help: If you need assistance finding materials or using library resources, don't hesitate to ask a staff member for help. They are there to assist you and make your experience at the library more enjoyable.
10. Be respectful of others: The library is a diverse and inclusive space, so make sure to be respectful of others' backgrounds, beliefs, and personal space. Any form of harassment or discrimination will not be tolerated.

The New York City Public Library offers a variety of subscription plans for its patrons. These plans are designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of the community. Below are the details of the subscription plans offered by the library:
1. Basic Plan: This plan is free for all residents of New York City. It allows access to the library's physical collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials. It also includes access to the library's online resources, such as e-books, audiobooks, and databases.
2. Premium Plan: This plan is available for a fee of $50 per year. It includes all the benefits of the Basic Plan, as well as access to the library's premium online resources, such as language learning programs, genealogy databases, and academic journals.
3. Student Plan: This plan is available for students enrolled in a New York City school or university. It is free and provides access to all the resources available in the Basic Plan, as well as access to specialized databases and research tools.
4. Business Plan: This plan is designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It is available for a fee of $100 per year and includes access to the library's business resources, such as market research databases, business planning tools, and workshops.
5. Non-Resident Plan: This plan is available for individuals who do not reside in New York City but wish to access the library's resources. It is available for a fee of $100 per year and includes access to all the resources available in the Basic Plan.
6. Institutional Plan: This plan is designed for organizations, such as schools, community centers, and non-profit organizations. It is available for a fee of $500 per year and provides access to the library's resources for up to 10 individuals.
In addition to these subscription plans, the New York City Public Library also offers free access to its resources for visitors and tourists. However, some resources may require a fee for non-subscribers. The library also offers special discounts and promotions throughout the year, so it is recommended to check their website or visit a library branch for more information.

Monday: 10:00 AM  6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM  8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM  8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM  8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM  6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM  6:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM  5:00 PM
Please note that these timings may vary due to holidays or special events. It is recommended to check the library's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date timings.

"Travel to the N Y City Public Library in New York City with ease using various public transport options. Choose from subway lines, buses, or the nearby Grand Central Terminal for convenient access. Plan your trip using the MTA website or app for real-time updates and schedules. #NYC #PublicTransport #Library"