New york library of congress

The New York Public Library (NYPL) is one of the largest public libraries in the United States, with a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials. While the Library of Congress is a separate institution, NYPL has a rich history and a significant collection of its own. Here are some interesting facts about the New York Public Library:

  1. History: The New York Public Library was founded in 1895, with a gift of $2.1 million from Samuel J. Tilden, a former governor of New York. The library was established to provide free access to books and information to the people of New York City.
  2. Branches: NYPL has 92 branches throughout the five boroughs of New York City, making it one of the largest public library systems in the United States.
  3. Collections: The library's collections include over 55 million items, including:
    • Over 15 million books, including rare and historic volumes.
    • Over 1 million manuscripts, including papers of famous authors and historical figures.
    • Over 500,000 audio recordings, including music, spoken word, and podcasts.
    • Over 200,000 moving images, including films, videos, and television programs.
  4. Research libraries: NYPL has three research libraries:
    • The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (42nd Street and 5th Avenue): This is the main research library, with a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials.
    • The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture (125th Street and Lenox Avenue): This library specializes in African American and African diasporic culture, history, and literature.
    • The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (40 Lincoln Center Plaza): This library is dedicated to the performing arts, with a collection of music, dance, and theater materials.
  5. Digital collections: NYPL has a significant digital collection, including:
    • The Digital Public Library of America: A collaborative project with other libraries and cultural institutions to provide free access to digital materials.
    • The Internet Archive: A digital library that provides access to books, music, and other materials.
  6. Programs and services: NYPL offers a range of programs and services, including:
    • Author talks and book readings
    • Children's storytime and literacy programs
    • Research assistance and reference services
    • Online courses and educational resources
  7. Architecture: The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a iconic Beaux-Arts building designed by Carrère and Hastings. The building is a New York City landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

While the Library of Congress is a separate institution, NYPL is an important cultural and educational institution in its own right, with a rich history and a significant collection of materials.