10 Must-See Exhibits at the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is one of the most iconic cultural institutions in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Established in 1895, it is the second-largest public library system in the United States and one of the largest in the world. The library system comprises four research libraries and 88 neighborhood branch libraries located throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

The New York Public Library has a long and fascinating history that stretches back over a century. It was founded with a mission to provide free and open access to information and knowledge to all people. Over the years, it has played a significant role in promoting education and literacy, preserving cultural heritage, and shaping intellectual discourse.

One of the ways in which the New York Public Library fulfills its mission is through its extensive exhibits, which are held regularly in its various branches. Exhibits provide an opportunity to showcase the library's vast collections, including rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts, to a wider audience. They also serve as a means of promoting learning and cultural awareness, inspiring creativity and imagination, and fostering a deeper appreciation of history and heritage.

In this blog post, we will highlight ten must-see exhibits at the New York Public Library that you won't want to miss. From historical treasures to contemporary art and culture, these exhibits are a testament to the library's ongoing commitment to excellence in education, research, and public service. So, let's explore the exciting world of the New York Public Library exhibits together!

Rose Main Reading Room

The Rose Main Reading Room is one of the most iconic spaces in the New York Public Library. This magnificent room spans two city blocks, and with its soaring ceiling and grand architecture, it is a true architectural masterpiece. The room was originally opened in 1911 and underwent a complete renovation in 2016, which restored it to its former glory.

Apart from being a stunning space, the Rose Main Reading Room is also home to several exhibits that are currently on display. These exhibits showcase a range of topics, from literary treasures to contemporary art and culture. One of the current exhibits on display is "Public Eye: 175 Years of Sharing Photography," which explores the evolution of photography and its impact on society. Visitors can view original photographs and rare books from the library's vast collections, providing a unique insight into the history of photography.

The Rose Main Reading Room is not just a beautiful space; it also holds significant historical importance. Over the years, it has been used as a location for films, television shows, and even as a backdrop for photoshoots. It has also played host to many notable figures, including authors, politicians, and celebrities.

One of the most significant events to take place in the Rose Main Reading Room was the speech given by Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison in 1993. In her speech, she spoke about the importance of libraries and the role they play in preserving cultural heritage and promoting literacy. Her words continue to resonate with visitors today, emphasizing the vital role that the library plays in the cultural life of New York City and beyond.

The Rose Main Reading Room is a must-visit location for anyone visiting the New York Public Library. It is not just a beautiful space but also a hub of cultural and historical significance. Whether you are a bibliophile, a history buff, or simply looking to experience the grandeur of this stunning space, a visit to the Rose Main Reading Room is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

The Treasures of the New York Public Library

"The Treasures of the New York Public Library" exhibit is a celebration of the library's vast and diverse collections. This exhibit showcases some of the most significant and valuable items held by the library, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to see them up close.

One of the highlights of the exhibit is the Gutenberg Bible, one of the world's most valuable and rarest books. Printed in the 15th century by Johannes Gutenberg, this book is considered a landmark achievement in the history of printing. Visitors to the exhibit can view this incredible work and gain an appreciation of the skill and artistry involved in its creation.

Another item of significant historical importance on display is a copy of the Declaration of Independence. This copy was printed in 1776 by John Dunlap, and it is one of only 26 known surviving copies. Visitors can see this original document up close and gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of this critical moment in American history.

In addition to these iconic items, the exhibit also showcases a range of other treasures, including a collection of rare maps, manuscripts, and photographs. Each of these items holds significant cultural and historical importance, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the past and a greater appreciation of the library's collections.

The "Treasures of the New York Public Library" exhibit serves as a testament to the library's ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage. By showcasing these valuable and rare items, the library continues to inspire and educate visitors from around the world, ensuring that the knowledge and wisdom of the past are never forgotten.

Lunch Hour NYC

The "Lunch Hour NYC" exhibit at the New York Public Library is a fascinating look at the history and culture of lunchtime in the city. This exhibit explores the evolution of lunch in New York, from the earliest days of street vendors to the modern-day food truck revolution.

One of the most significant items on display is a hot dog cart from the early 20th century. This cart serves as a reminder of the important role that street vendors played in feeding New Yorkers throughout the city's history. Visitors can see firsthand the tools and equipment that vendors used to prepare and serve food, gaining a deeper appreciation of this important aspect of New York's food culture.

Another notable item on display is an original menu from the iconic Automat restaurant. This restaurant, which operated from the early 1900s until the 1990s, was a fixture of New York's lunchtime scene, offering affordable and convenient dining options for busy workers. The menu on display provides a glimpse into the range of dishes and prices that were available to patrons, giving visitors a sense of what lunchtime was like in the early 20th century.

In addition to these items, the exhibit also showcases a range of photographs, advertisements, and other artifacts that provide insight into the history and culture of lunchtime in New York. Visitors can learn about the rise of the lunch hour, the growth of the restaurant industry, and the role that food has played in shaping the city's identity.

The "Lunch Hour NYC" exhibit is a fascinating and entertaining look at a significant aspect of New York's cultural history. By showcasing these items and artifacts, the exhibit highlights the ways in which food and dining have shaped the city and its people, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of this unique and dynamic metropolis.

Mapping New York's Shoreline

The "Mapping New York's Shoreline" exhibit at the New York Public Library is a fascinating exploration of the city's changing waterfront over time. This exhibit showcases a range of maps and other artifacts that provide insight into the ways in which New York's shoreline has evolved and been reshaped by human intervention.

One of the most significant items on display is a map of Manhattan from 1782. This map, created by Bernard Ratzer, provides a detailed view of the island's coastline before many of the changes brought about by urbanization and development. Visitors can see the original shorelines, marshes, and streams that once defined the island's edge, gaining a deeper understanding of the natural landscape that existed before the city's transformation.

Another notable item on display is a 1909 map of New York's harbor. This map, created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, shows the extensive network of piers, docks, and shipping channels that made New York one of the world's busiest ports. Visitors can see how the city's harbor was transformed by human intervention, as new structures and infrastructure were built to accommodate the growing volume of trade and commerce.

In addition to these items, the exhibit also features a range of other maps and artifacts that highlight the ways in which the city's shoreline has been shaped and reshaped over time. Visitors can learn about the role that engineering and construction projects have played in changing the landscape, as well as the environmental and ecological challenges that continue to face the city's waterfront.

The "Mapping New York's Shoreline" exhibit serves as a reminder of the ways in which human intervention has transformed the city's natural landscape. By showcasing these maps and artifacts, the exhibit provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the city's history and evolution, as well as the ongoing challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Torn in Two: The 1968 MLK Assassination

The "Torn in Two: The 1968 MLK Assassination" exhibit at the New York Public Library is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most significant events in modern American history. This exhibit showcases a range of artifacts, including photographs, documents, and personal items, that provide a glimpse into the tumultuous period surrounding the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968.

One of the most significant items on display is a letter that King wrote from a Birmingham jail in 1963. This letter, which was addressed to a group of clergymen who had criticized King's efforts to combat segregation and discrimination, became one of the most important documents of the civil rights movement. Visitors can see firsthand the power and eloquence of King's words, and gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and obstacles that he faced in his fight for justice and equality.

Another notable item on display is a collection of photographs that document the aftermath of King's assassination. These photographs, taken by a range of photographers, offer a glimpse into the widespread grief and anger that swept across the country in the days and weeks following King's death. Visitors can see firsthand the impact that King had on the nation, and gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and racial justice in America.

In addition to these items, the exhibit also features a range of personal items that offer a more intimate view of King's life and legacy. Visitors can see his briefcase, his Bible, and other personal belongings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the man behind the movement and the sacrifices that he made in his fight for justice.

The "Torn in Two: The 1968 MLK Assassination" exhibit is a powerful and moving tribute to one of America's greatest leaders. By showcasing these artifacts, the exhibit provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the challenges and obstacles that King faced, as well as the ongoing struggle for civil rights and racial justice in America.

The ABC of It: Why Children's Books Matter

"The ABC of It: Why Children's Books Matter" is a delightful exhibit at the New York Public Library that celebrates the importance of children's literature in shaping young minds and fostering a lifelong love of learning. This exhibit features a range of books, illustrations, and other artifacts that highlight the impact that children's literature has had on generations of readers.

One of the most significant items on display is the original manuscript for "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak. This beloved children's book has captivated readers of all ages for decades with its imaginative story and captivating illustrations. Visitors can see firsthand the creative process behind the book, and gain a deeper appreciation for the ways in which children's literature can spark the imagination and inspire creativity.

Another notable item on display is a collection of illustrations by Dr. Seuss, including original sketches and artwork from some of his most famous books. Visitors can see how Dr. Seuss used playful language and whimsical characters to engage young readers, and gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which children's literature can introduce children to new ideas and perspectives.

In addition to these items, the exhibit also features a range of other books and artifacts that highlight the impact that children's literature has had on popular culture and society at large. Visitors can explore the history of children's publishing, learn about the importance of diverse representation in children's books, and gain a deeper appreciation for the role that children's literature plays in shaping young minds.

"The ABC of It: Why Children's Books Matter" is a wonderful celebration of the power of children's literature to inspire, educate, and entertain. By showcasing these artifacts, the exhibit provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the importance of children's books in shaping the lives of young readers, and underscores the enduring legacy of this beloved genre.

Love & Resistance: Stonewall 50

"Love & Resistance: Stonewall 50" is a powerful exhibit at the New York Public Library that explores the history of the LGBTQ rights movement and its impact on American society. This exhibit features a range of artifacts, including photographs, documents, and personal items, that highlight the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ community over the past several decades.

One of the most significant items on display is a copy of the first issue of "Gay Power" magazine, which was published in 1969 in the aftermath of the Stonewall uprising. This publication helped to spark a new era of activism and advocacy for LGBTQ rights, and provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. Visitors can see firsthand how this publication and others like it helped to fuel the movement for LGBTQ equality and inspire future generations of activists.

Another notable item on display is a collection of photographs that document key moments in the history of the LGBTQ rights movement, including the first Pride march in 1970 and the 2015 Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage. These images provide a visual history of the movement, and showcase the bravery and resilience of LGBTQ individuals who fought for their rights in the face of discrimination and prejudice.

In addition to these items, the exhibit also features personal items from LGBTQ individuals who have made significant contributions to the movement for equality, including Harvey Milk, Audre Lorde, and Marsha P. Johnson. Visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of these individuals, and see firsthand the ways in which their activism and advocacy have helped to shape American society.

"Love & Resistance: Stonewall 50" is a moving tribute to the LGBTQ rights movement and its impact on American society. By showcasing these artifacts, the exhibit provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of LGBTQ individuals over the past several decades, and underscores the importance of continued advocacy and activism for LGBTQ rights.

The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library's Treasures

The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library's Treasures is an exceptional exhibit that showcases some of the most remarkable items from the library's collections. This exhibit features a range of rare books, manuscripts, maps, and other artifacts that span centuries and cover a variety of subjects.

One of the most significant items on display is a handwritten manuscript of Lewis Carroll's beloved children's classic, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." Visitors can see firsthand the author's original words and illustrations, gaining insight into the creative process that gave rise to this timeless work of literature.

Another notable item on display is an original copy of the Gutenberg Bible, one of the most important books in the history of printing. This rare artifact is a testament to the revolutionary impact that Gutenberg's printing press had on the dissemination of knowledge and the spread of ideas.

In addition to these items, the exhibit also features a range of maps, manuscripts, and other items that highlight the history of science, art, and culture. Visitors can view an early map of the world by Gerardus Mercator, a manuscript of Mozart's "Linz Symphony," and a first edition of Charles Darwin's "On the Origin of Species."

The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library's Treasures is a unique opportunity to view some of the world's most rare and exceptional artifacts. By showcasing these items, the exhibit underscores the enduring value of knowledge, literature, and culture, and reminds visitors of the library's critical role in preserving and sharing these treasures with the world.

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is one of the most important cultural institutions in the United States. Founded in 1925 by Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a Puerto Rican-born black bibliophile and collector, the center is dedicated to researching and preserving the history and culture of people of African descent.

Currently, the center is hosting several exciting exhibits that highlight different aspects of black history and culture. One of the most notable is "Unveiling Visions: The Alchemy of the Black Imagination," which showcases the work of contemporary black speculative fiction writers, artists, and activists. Visitors can see a range of multimedia installations, including digital animations, sculpture, and audio recordings, all of which explore the intersection of black identity, science fiction, and fantasy.

Another exhibit on display is "Black Power!," which examines the history of the Black Power movement of the 1960s and 70s. The exhibit features a range of artifacts, including photographs, posters, and publications, that highlight the movement's emphasis on black pride, self-determination, and community empowerment.

The Schomburg Center's history is a testament to the resilience and creativity of black people in the face of systemic oppression. Named after Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a pioneering black historian and collector, the center has played a critical role in preserving and promoting black history and culture for nearly a century.

By providing access to rare manuscripts, books, and artifacts, as well as hosting exhibits, lectures, and other events, the center has become a vital resource for scholars, artists, and activists alike. Its legacy continues to inspire and inform those who seek to understand and celebrate the rich and diverse history of people of African descent.

The Library After Hours

The Library After Hours is a unique event held at the New York Public Library that provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the library's exhibits and collections after regular operating hours. This event is typically held once a month and features a range of exhibits, activities, and special programming that cater to a diverse range of interests.

During the event, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as guided tours of the library's iconic Rose Main Reading Room, interactive installations that highlight the library's collections and resources, and musical performances by local artists. In addition, guests can participate in workshops, lectures, and discussions led by experts in various fields, including literature, history, and science.

The Library After Hours event is significant in that it provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the library's collections and exhibits in a new and exciting way. By opening the doors to the public after hours, the library creates an atmosphere of exploration and discovery, inviting visitors to engage with its collections and resources in a more intimate and interactive way.

Moreover, the event serves as a reminder of the library's mission to serve as a center for education, research, and cultural enrichment for people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a lifelong resident of New York City or just visiting for the first time, the Library After Hours event is a must-see experience that should not be missed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the New York Public Library offers a rich and diverse range of exhibits that are not to be missed. From the iconic Rose Main Reading Room to the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, each exhibit offers a unique glimpse into the library's vast collections and resources.

Whether you're interested in exploring the treasures of the library's collections, discovering the history of New York City, or learning about the cultural significance of children's literature, the New York Public Library has something for everyone. With events like The Library After Hours providing new and exciting ways to engage with the library's exhibits and resources, there's always a reason to visit this iconic institution.

Overall, the importance of visiting exhibits in the library cannot be overstated. Not only do they offer a window into the rich cultural and historical heritage of New York City and beyond, but they also provide an opportunity to learn and engage with the world in new and exciting ways.

By visiting these exhibits, you can expand your knowledge, broaden your perspective, and deepen your appreciation for the world around you. So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to the New York Public Library today and discover the wonders that await!