Remembrance of Books Past at the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library was built on the munificence of the Gilded Age – including that of John Jacob Astor, who also commissioned Washington Irving to write Astoria, one of the many rare books you can read inside. Many New Yorkers have not braved the signature lions to experience the high marble lobby or the vast public reading room with its rich wood and cloud-painted ceilings. Perhaps that’s why budget cuts have gradually eroded the library’s hours. Books from the miles of stacks can be requested here, and perused at your leisure at one of the many oak tables. There are both computerized catalogs and of course card files, or you can prepare by going the Library web site for an online version. The staff are perhaps a little jaded, and like most public servants, expect you to know the system, but it is not that hard to navigate. If you don’t have a research project, you can just stroll around and admire the intricately carved wood structures. The library also has a genealogical room where you can check the rolls of immigrants who came through Ellis Island and numerous other resources.

If you have an interest in American painting, there is an Asher Durand painting across from the Catalog Room on the third floor. "Kindred Spirits," shows the writer William Cullen Bryant, together with Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School, talking amidst a romantic landscape. There are murals, outside the Catalog room, by Edward Lanning. The library itself was built by the firm of Carrère & Hastings, winners of a prestigious design competition in 1897 and did not open until 1911. The exterior was made of Vermont marble and was designed to impress, as were the famous lions, sculpted by Edward Clark Potter. In spite of the fact that it is dwarfed by the encircling towers and neglected by the city budget, the Library is still a majestic building.

There are frequently special exhibits at the Library that are worthy of a visit on their own. Behind the library is Bryant Park, where in fine weather there are plenty of chairs to sit and enjoy refreshments from the varied kiosks. Library hours are from 11- 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday and 10 to 6 Thursdat through Saturda. The Library is closed both Sunday and Monday.