Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street
First Floor
Room 117
New York, NY 10018
212-930-0587
Directions
Fully Accessible
Open today
10 AM–7:45 PM
Regular Hours
Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division
Day Hours
Monday: 10 AM–5:45 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–7:45 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–5:45 PM
Friday: 10 AM–5:45 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–5:45 PM
Sunday: CLOSED

About the Division

Archival map featuring two views of the Earth.

The Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division is one of the world’s premier map collections in terms of size, scope, unique holdings, diversity and intensity of use. Established in 1898, our holdings include more than 433,000 sheet maps and 20,000 books and atlases published between the 16th and 21st centuries. The collections range from the global to the local scale and support the learning and research needs of a wide variety of users. 

The Map Division welcomes research questions on any topic that benefits from the use of cartographic materials and its related history or geography. Our reference staff provides guidance on how to access NYPL’s extensive collections, while also sharing relevant research methodologies and information literacy skills that can aid in independent research. Visiting for research? Email us in advance or schedule a consultation. Explore our online catalog, research guides and databases beforehand to make the most of your visit.

Visiting the Collection

What do researchers need to know about accessing the collection?
Using your NYPL Special Collections account, you can request materials to view in advance of your visit. 

To do so, you can visit the Online Research Catalog to search for collections and use the “Request Appointment” or “Request to Use On-Site” buttons to make your requests. If an item does not have either button, please contact maps@nypl.org 

If you are requesting materials specifically from the printed Dictionary Catalog, please use your Special Collections account to fill out this specific form.  

Can researchers access the collection without an appointment?
While same-day appointments can be made in person, we encourage you to book an appointment in advance to access materials in the Map Division. You can do so either in your NYPL Special Collections account or by emailing maps@nypl.org.

Most of the Library’s materials are stored under Bryant Park or in offsite storage and are not immediately available—booking in advance can help you make the most of your visit and reduce waiting times. 

Can I book an appointment to speak with a librarian about my research or on the best ways to get started?
Consultations are available for patrons wanting to discuss their research projects and to prepare for a visit to the Library. We offer both virtual and in person consultations. You do not need to have to have a consultation prior to your visit to the Map Division. 

Who can researchers contact with further questions?
Please email us at maps@nypl.org or fill out this form: Ask A Question

Learn more about this division

Request a Class Visit

Three researchers sit at a table filled with books in the Rose Main Reading Room.

Our staff welcomes students and instructors to explore the collections and resources at our landmark 42nd Street building. We work with educators to design class visits that use the Library's remarkable collections to foster creative inquiry, build critical thinking and information literacy skills, and inspire wonder and excitement around the process of research. Learn more.