See all our upcoming events at the Library including member-only events, family events, livestreams, special events, and many more.
Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Celebrate with Song
Sat, Nov 2, 2024 - 3:00pm EDTFounded in 1754, New York City's oldest library is a thriving community of readers, writers, and families. Our name and mission trace back to our founding, when there were no libraries in the city and the word “society” connoted a voluntary association of individuals joined for a common purpose. The Library has always been free to everyone for reading and reference, and to this day, our “society” is comprised of anyone who wants to make use of the Library’s resources.
We are open to all for reading, reference, and many events. Become a member to check out books, use our beautiful reading and study spaces, and enjoy other benefits.
Become a Member
Become a member to check out books, use our beautiful reading and study spaces, and enjoy other benefits.
Renovation Project
Get the latest on the Library's plans to create more space for our collection, our community, and our public programs.
City Readers
Discover the Library’s historic past through digital copies of materials from our print and archival collections.
Current Exhibition
A Belief in Books: The 270th Anniversary Exhibition
January 18-December 31, 2024
Open to the public in The Assunta, Ignazio, Ada and Romano Peluso Exhibition Gallery.
Black Literature Matters
View event recordings, exhibition materials, recommended reading lists, and more resources that highlight the thousands of stories by African American writers contained within our building and acquired since the 1700s.
Children’s Library
For Children & Teens
Books, events, and resources in a space for children and teens.
Support Us
Donate to The Library
The Library relies on donations from our members and friends to help us expand our print and electronic collections, present distinguished lectures and exhibitions, maintain our beautiful building, and support our dedicated staff. Please consider making a gift today.
The New York City Book Awards
The New York Society Library's New York City Book Awards, established in 1995-1996, honor books of literary quality or historical importance that, in the opinion of the selection committee, evoke the spirit or enhance appreciation of New York City.