5 Reasons to Put New York Public Library on Your Bucket List

New York Public Library, East 46th Street, New York, NY, USA
New York Public Library, East 46th Street, New York, NY, USA. Photo by Alejandro Barba on Unsplash

New York is home to an endless list of attractions worth checking out during your visit, and if the New York Public Library isn’t one of them – it should be. It’s the Big Apple’s beacon of knowledge that offers something to travelers from all walks of life, and here are five reasons why you should pay it a visit.

Free Entrance

New York isn’t a cheap city to explore, and entrance to most attractions will cost you a fortune. The New York Public Library is a rare exception, and you can visit it without spending a dime.

Book Lovers’ Paradise

Like every library out there, this one is a heaven on Earth for book lovers. You can take a self-guided audio tour to learn more about its history or even try getting a temporary library card during your visit.

Architectural Marvel

NYPL’s flagship location on Fifth Avenue is known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Instantly recognizable thanks to its dramatic staircase and a pair of stone lions, this building is a sight to behold inside and out, and it’s a huge hit with architecture lovers.

Amazing Exhibits

NYPB hosts many exhibitions showcasing the rare books in its collection, most notably the first Gutenberg Bible in the New World.

Cultural Events

In addition to exhibits, the NYPL also often hosts cultural events on their premises, so check the calendar on their official website and see if there are any events and lectures worth attending during your visit.