Name: 53rd Street Library
Address: 18 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, New York
Telephone: +12127148400

At a glance

#5 of 21 Public libraries in New York

LocalGuideWorld score: 4.58

0.5 km from the center of New York

Rating breakdown

5 ★81%
4 ★11%
3 ★2%
2 ★2%
1 ★4%

18 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

nypl.org

(212) 714-8400

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53rd Street Library, New York – photo 10

53rd Street Library, New York – photo 11

53rd Street Library, New York – photo 12

Quick facts

What is the rating of 53rd Street Library?: 53rd Street Library is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 245 reviews.
How does 53rd Street Library rank in New York?: 53rd Street Library is #5 of 21 Public libraries in New York by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
Where is 53rd Street Library located?: 18 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 — 0.5 km from the center of New York.
How can I contact 53rd Street Library?: Phone: (212) 714-8400 · Website: nypl.org

Reviews (8)

David Lawrence Scuderi 2023 Aug 08

My first time here. You enter from the street on the top floor. You go downstairs for the 2 lower floors. Modern layout, airy and spacious.

Ana Sofía Vázquez 2023 Aug 04

It is honestly such a shame that this beautiful space is invaded by noise not only of the kids but people who don’t use headphones and the smells of people eating all sort of things in the reading areas. The place could really benefit from enforcing some rules…

Renae Francis 2023 Jul 15

Its an interesting layout and the look is very big. I would recommend free headphones and free printing maybe 10 copies free. This is a public library which benefits the American Public. May I suggest more charging areas and some more courteous staff. I happened to be in the midst of writing with paper and pencil about me and happened to dose and lifted my head to a nasty voice telling me get up nastily.

Laura Leonelli 2023 Jun 21

Nice space, beautiful building, free WiFi, free access to exhibitions & good products at the store.

Dr. B 2023 May 28

The New York Public Library's flagship location on 5th Avenue in Manhattan is one of the most iconic libraries in the world. It is located in Midtown Manhattan, between 40th and 42nd Streets, directly across from Bryant Park. The Beaux-Arts building, designed by architects Carrère and Hastings, opened in 1911 and is a designated National Historic Landmark.

The library's collection includes over 50 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and more. Among the library's treasures are Gutenberg Bibles, first editions of Shakespeare and other literary classics, and historical documents such as the Declaration of Independence.

In addition to the vast collection, the library offers a number of public programs, including lectures, exhibitions, and workshops. There are guided tours of the building and the research collections, as well as a variety of services for researchers and scholars.

The library's Rose Main Reading Room is one of the most famous and beautiful reading rooms in the world, with its soaring ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and rows of oak tables. Visitors can also explore the library's other public spaces, including the Schwarzman Building's Astor Hall and the Celeste Bartos Forum.

Overall, the New York Public Library's 5th Avenue location is a must-visit destination for book and architecture lovers, historians, and anyone seeking to experience one of New York City's most iconic institutions.

Seiko B. 2023 Apr 11

Beautiful architecture! There is a gift shop and also exhibit room with historical/religious items including the original Winnie the Pooh dolls (super cute!) Exhibit is free!

Cristian Angkasa 2023 Jan 09

Huge public library ever seen, a combination of the historical and modern architecture, clean and safe place, friendly and informative staffs persons, convenient place to study and enjoy historical museum.

They have Cafe and seats to enjoy the meals and also souvenirs shop. Very nice place for hanging by self, with family or friends.

Highly recommended 🤩👍👍👍👍👍

Kevin McNeil 2016 Oct 09

Excellent branch library in a beautifully designed, purpose built space. Top notch facilities with a great children’s space on a dedicated floor. Ample seating and workspaces. Casual seating steps where food and beverages are allowed - quite rare for a library - in the signature architectural design element. Diverse and compelling circulating collection. Friendly and resourceful staff. Among the best branch libraries in the city.