The New York Public Library (NYPL) is one of the largest and most renowned public libraries in the world, with nearly 53 million items in its collection. The library's main branch, known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is a stunning Beaux-Arts landmark that attracts millions of visitors every year. If you want to learn more about the history, architecture, and collections of this magnificent building, you can join one of the free guided tours offered by the library's docents.
There are two types of guided tours available at the NYPL: building tours and Rose Main Reading Room tours. The building tours are one-hour tours that highlight the main features and stories of the library, including the iconic lion statues, the Astor Hall, the McGraw Rotunda, and the historic Rose Main Reading Room. The Rose Main Reading Room tours are shorter tours that focus on the grandeur and significance of this famous reading room, which spans almost two city blocks and features a stunning painted ceiling.
The building tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 11 AM and 2 PM, and Sunday at 2 PM. You can book tickets online to join one of these tours. Tickets are released every Sunday for the week ahead. The Rose Main Reading Room tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3 PM, and Sunday at 1:30 PM and 3 PM. You can sign up for these tours in person at the McGraw Rotunda on the third floor, where the tour begins, 30 minutes prior.
All guided tours are free and limited to a certain number of people. You can also explore the library on your own with a self-guided audio tour or a map. The library is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM. Note that the library is closed on Sundays in July and August.
The NYPL is more than just a library; it is a cultural treasure that offers a glimpse into the history and spirit of New York City. Whether you are a book lover, an architecture enthusiast, or a curious visitor, you will find something to admire and enjoy at this remarkable institution.
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If you want to explore other branches of the NYPL, you can also join guided tours at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture and the Library for the Performing Arts. The Schomburg Center is a world-class research library dedicated to documenting the history and culture of people of African descent. The Library for the Performing Arts is a specialized library that houses collections related to music, dance, theater, and film. Both libraries offer free tours that showcase their unique and valuable resources.
The Schomburg Center tours are offered Monday through Friday at 1 PM and 3 PM, and Saturday at 12 PM and 2 PM. You can sign up for these tours in person at the Langston Hughes Lobby on the first floor, where the tour begins. The Library for the Performing Arts tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 12 PM and 4 PM. You can sign up for these tours in person at the Plaza Corridor on the first floor, where the tour begins.
Whether you are interested in literature, art, history, or culture, you will find something to inspire and educate you at the NYPL. The library's guided tours are a great way to discover the treasures and stories that lie within its walls. Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of New York City's most iconic and beloved institutions.
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