Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to New York

Public libraries

A public library that functions as a serious resource while still being a space where children are encouraged to explore.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Greenburgh Public Library image 1
Greenburgh Public Library image 2
Greenburgh Public Library image 3
View all

Bright, modern space with natural light and comfortable seating creates a quiet, welcoming atmosphere. It serves as a vibrant community hub with well-organized collections and ample resources for all ages. The design blends museum-like architecture with functional areas for study and play.

Quiet and clean space with outstanding book selection and ample laptops and good printers. Friendly, helpful staff support a well-stocked children's library and offer programs for all ages.

Bright, clean space offers comfortable seating and a thoughtful layout. Functions as a hub of culture, education, and entertainment within a robust library network.

People are saying

"The staff at this Reading Spot are so friendly and helpful."

"The library staff are so friendly and helpful."

"The Public Library staff are so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The library hosts storytime events for kids on weekends.

2

Free parking is available for library visitors.

3

Wi-Fi is available throughout the library for visitors.

02
New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building image 1

Historic library building showcases stunning architecture with a breathtaking ceiling and beautiful murals. Quiet reading rooms with laptop sockets offer a calm space for study and reflection. Free admission invites visitors to explore rich collections and enjoy a small cafe and gift shop.

A free museum with stunning architecture, this library offers a vast collection and a quiet space for study and travel research. It stands as one of the city's greatest treasures and a must-see for anyone interested in knowledge and culture.

Free admission welcomes everyone to explore a vast collection of knowledge and history. The building offers a stunning atmosphere with historic architecture and important exhibitions that highlight its role as a major public library.

People are saying

"The Public Library's architecture is monumental and breathtaking."

"The quiet grandeur of the architecture is truly inspiring."

"I found the library building to be beautiful and monumental."

Good to know

1

Entry to the library is free for all visitors.

2

Guided tours of the Rose Main Reading Room are available multiple times a day.

3

A free tour starts at 11am and 2pm, lasting one hour.

03
The New York Public Library Shop image 1

Beaux-Arts architecture shapes a majestic, peaceful space with high ceilings, intricate moldings, and ornate chandeliers. Quiet atmosphere invites focus and calm amid rich historical details. Elegant shop offers tasteful souvenirs within a stunning, timeless setting.

A magnificent library building houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and archives that are hard to find elsewhere. Visitors find it a serene spot with free Wi-Fi, accessible facilities, and a shop offering interesting souvenirs.

A serene space with tons of books offers quiet spots to chill and read. The library features a beautiful interior and a nice shop inside.

People are saying

"The architecture here is beautiful and historically impressive."

"The architecture of these libraries is beautiful and historic."

"The Public Library's architecture is really very pretty."

Good to know

1

The exhibit is free to enter.

2

The business closes before 5 PM, contrary to what Google states.

3

Bags are screened when entering and exiting the venue.

04
Sachem Public Library image 1
Public library

Library offers game consoles for checkout and a full cafรฉ that serves as a social spot. Spaces include a large kids' area and studio facilities accessible to all. Atmosphere varies from peaceful to lively with groups gathering and laughing loudly for hours.

Offers 27 PCs and a full studio area open to all patrons, plus game consoles like Sega Genesis for checkout. Includes a cafรฉ and cozy service area, with a wide book selection and strong support for requests.

A standout feature is The Studio, known for its quality and craftsmanship. It supports creative projects, like producing custom imagery for concerts.

People are saying

"The Studio at the Public Library creates amazing artwork with attention to detail."

"The cafe inside the library has a great book selection."

"The Libraries staff is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The library offers adult services with access to 27 PCs and a full studio area.

2

The library has a coffee shop for patrons to enjoy refreshments.

3

Business owners can get a free membership for library services.

05
Port Washington Public Library image 1

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame bay views and fill the space with natural light, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Large, bright children's section and separate computer area support varied activities. Artistic displays and roomy interiors blend cozy and industrial styles, offering a dynamic environment.

A beautiful library with a large selection of books including many new releases. It offers a bright children's section, a story time area, and a quiet reading nook, making it welcoming for all ages.

Spacious children's section offers a good selection of kids' books not found nearby. Many make trips here for the quality and variety of materials available.

People are saying

"It's surprisingly quiet, even with kids playing nearby."

"This children's Reading Spot is big, bright, and a delight for young book lovers."

"The children's section at the Libraries is a paradise for kids."

Good to know

1

The library is open until 9 PM from Monday to Friday.

2

The parking lot has plenty of spots available, especially in the evening.

3

The children's section features a large selection of books and is spacious.

06
Brooklyn Public Library - Central Branch image 1

Building shaped like a huge book showcases gorgeous architecture and spacious, well-divided rooms. Quiet areas support focused work, while a cafe and recording studio add unique amenities. Exhibits like the Jay Z display bring cultural depth to the space.

A gigantic selection of books fills the shelves in a space known for its beautiful architecture inside and out. The library offers unique features like a record player for public use and provides a welcoming, organized environment with helpful staff.

Large branches offer extensive collections and rich historical context. Public library peace officers ensure a safe environment for visitors.

People are saying

"I loved the Moomins exhibition at the Libraries."

"The historical sites here have awe-inspiring architecture and grand charm."

"The Public Library's Moomins exhibition felt whimsical and nostalgic."

Good to know

1

The Book of HOV exhibit is free and accessible to all visitors.

2

The library hosts various daily and weekly events and educational offerings.

3

Major events, including a Jay-Z concert, have been held at the library.

07
53rd Street Library image 1
Public library

Building showcases magnificent architecture with Greek-inspired stonework and spacious interiors. Atmosphere balances calm and cozy with occasional noise from children and casual visitors. Features include free WiFi, numerous reading nooks, a mini museum, and a cafe, creating a welcoming environment for work and leisure.

A huge public library with museum-like collections offers a calm and safe environment. It features beautiful architecture, inclusive programs, and free entry, making it a well-equipped spot for study and exploration.

Huge public libraries offer museum-like collections and extensive resources. Some buildings serve as iconic landmarks, while others focus on being well-equipped community libraries.

People are saying

"The Libraries here feel grand and timeless, like stepping back in time."

"It's a historical site with breathtaking architecture and history."

"This Public Library is a beautiful, modern, and spacious place."

Good to know

1

You cannot enter the main hall without making an appointment.

2

To see the famous 'rose main reading room', arrive 30 minutes early for free tickets.

3

Entry to the library is free.

08
Scarsdale Public Library image 1

Modern design and well-lit comfortable spaces define the library, offering a wide variety of books and a nice cafe. Atmosphere shifts from quiet study areas to lively children's play zones, especially during colder weather. Surroundings include beautiful grounds that enhance the experience.

Modern design and well-lit comfortable spaces make this library stand out. It offers a good selection of new books, a quiet atmosphere, and a friendly environment welcoming to kids and adults alike.

Offers a well-organized and inviting space for reading and working. Facilities stand out as more advanced compared to many public libraries in Rio de Janeiro.

People are saying

"It's so kid-friendly with great activities and a nice kids area."

"The libraries here are beautiful and comfortable spaces."

"It's a peaceful, well-lit place for studying."

Good to know

1

The library hosts special events on various days throughout the month.

2

The Children's Section offers a good selection of books for kids.

3

Food is available for purchase on-site.

09
Jefferson Market Library image 1

Victorian Gothic architecture shapes a spacious library with stained glass windows and a spiral staircase. Quiet, cozy reading areas offer a relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with the city's hustle. A beautiful garden outside provides a peaceful oasis.

A Victorian Gothic courthouse converted into a library offers a quiet and comfortable study environment. The building features a beautiful renovation with a surrounding garden and holds a wealth of knowledge for visitors.

A historic building restored by architect Giorgio Cavaglieri serves as a public library branch. The interior is redesigned for library use while preserving the architectural charm of the exterior.

People are saying

"This reading spot's stained glass windows are breathtaking."

"It's a gorgeous, quiet space that's perfect for getting work done."

"I found the library's historic building and stained glass windows breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The library holds frequent events and workshops for children.

2

Restrooms are located on the lowest floor of the library.

3

Visitors should arrive early to secure a seat.

10
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) image 1

Massive building with modern architecture and large rooftop terrace offers quiet upper floors and spacious kids and teen areas. Outdoor rooftop space provides views of city landmarks and a cafe for meals. Free WiFi and clean facilities support remote work and community programs.

Spacious seating and organized layout make it easy to work or read. The rooftop area offers a unique spot to relax. Staff provide smooth library card services and support community events.

Renovated spaces offer a visually stunning and historic atmosphere with an impressive collection of books and resources. Operating hours are generous, and facilities like restrooms stand out as refreshing compared to others.

People are saying

"This reading spot has a great atmosphere and a huge book selection."

"The librarians here are great and always able to help."

"The Public Library's rooftop terrace has amazing views."

Good to know

1

Admission to the library is free.

2

The library opens early and stays open until 2100 most nights.

3

The rooftop is free to access.

11
The Rose Main Reading Room image 1

Massive space with magnificent architecture and high ceilings creates a studious atmosphere. Quiet energy fills the room as people focus on reading and studying at large tables equipped with power outlets. The environment offers a peaceful haven amid a busy city setting.

Huge space with stunning architecture and decor that feels like a museum. The reading room offers quiet study areas with good lighting and cool temperature, plus free access to extensive databases.

People are saying

"It's a quiet haven for study and reflection."

"This reading spot's architecture is stunning and magnificent."

"The library's interior is stunning, like a museum."

Good to know

1

It is free to use the library.

2

Visitors need to show a laptop or a book to gain entry to study in the Reading Room.

3

Visitors should arrive between 10-11am before they must join a tour or bring a book/laptop to study.

12
Queens Public Library at Richmond Hill image 1

Small Carnegie library offers clean, organized space with free internet and printing services. Noise levels vary due to lively children's area and active conversations, creating a less quiet atmosphere than typical libraries. Outdoor seating adds a welcoming touch to the environment.

Quiet and peaceful atmosphere supports focused reading and studying. Staff are welcoming and helpful, creating a positive environment. The library is well-maintained and clean with a notable children's section and toy area.

Bright and clean spaces make it easy to focus. The book collection supports studying but is smaller than larger city libraries.

People are saying

"The kid area is clean, organized, and has an amazing toy section."

"The staff here is so helpful and makes it a positive environment."

"The Libraries staff are so helpful and patient."

Good to know

1

Queen's public library provides free COVID rapid tests.

2

The library offers free internet with desks and power outlets for laptops.

3

With a library card, you get 20 free pages printed daily.

Discover more

New York

Area guide
Loading Map...