The Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division. Photo: Jonathan Blanc.The New York Public Library was founded more than a century ago for the people of New York City. Now, as we reimagine our libraries for the future, we want to hear from you, our valued users.
Since we announced our plan for the future in 2008, we have canvassed users across our 91 locations. We’ve gathered information on what we do well, what we need to improve, and, looking ahead, on patrons’ priorities for both our neighborhood libraries and our landmark Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street.
Now we are seeking even more feedback on what your Library for the Future would look like.
TeenLIVE at the NYPL. Photo: Jonathan Blanc.Do you want to see more space for community meetings or impromptu brainstorming sessions and discussions? Increased seating capacity for writers and scholars? More programs and play spaces for young children? More self-checkout machines? Comfortable seating areas? Expanded performance spaces?
Please e-mail your thoughts to yourlibrary@nypl.org. Without your input, we cannot create the Library for the Future that New Yorkers need and deserve.
What you’ve told us so far:
- 40 percent of surveyed users want more computers for Internet access
- 44 percent would like more space for browsing materials
- 43 percent want more very quiet areas
An educational program at the Library.
- 39 percent wish to enjoy food and beverages at the Library
“I’d like to see a lot more books and materials in other languages at NYPL and have more opportunities to learn other languages at the Library. The world is getting smaller and especially in New York City, we have so many nationalities here that we really need to have more materials for everyone, not just books too, but podcasts, music, newspapers.”
— Mick Bloom, a Manhattan resident who uses Mid-Manhattan Library and the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
We want to hear from YOU! Join the conversation about NYPL’s plan to build the Library for the Future and let us know what is important to you. Comment below or send an e-mail to yourlibrary@nypl.org. Don’t forget to check back often for more information and for more ways to contribute input. You can also sign up for NYPL News, the Library's monthly e-newsletter, to get updates on this project and other Library happenings.
