New York, NY 10023
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10:30 AM–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
| Thursday | 10:30 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
| Sunday | CLOSED |
Welcome to the Library for the Performing Arts, Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, one of NYPL’s renowned research libraries, houses one of the world's most extensive research collections in the fields of theater, film, dance, music, and recorded sound, as well as a wide array of circulating and reference materials.
The Library is open for unlimited browsing of our circulating collections and on-site research services either for walk-in service or by appointment.
In order to request access to special collections material, users will need to create a Special Collections account. Although it's not required, we encourage patrons to make an appointment with the relevant division by clicking the Research tab above. Find the division and make an appointment.
In the Spotlight
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Get Updates from the Library for the Performing Arts
We send out email newsletters once a month. Sign up for to get updates and information about our upcoming programs, articles, and news about the performing arts!
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New! Free Digital Guide on Bloomberg Connects
Download Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app, to explore the Library for the Performing Arts on your mobile device.
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Space Rentals - Outdoor Terrace, Auditorium, and Gallery Spaces
Hosting an event? Make it at the Library for the Performing Arts! Read our brochure about our accommodations, and contact us at LPArentals@nypl.org.
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From Our Blog
Read our blog posts from expert librarians, staff and fellows of the Library for the Performing Arts.
Learn More about the Library for the Performing Arts
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Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab
Learn about our newest state-of-the-art space for theater makers and artists, the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab.
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Education at the Library for the Performing Arts
We help teachers, educators, and professors working in K–12, college, and post-graduate schools strengthen their coursework by providing access to our archives, and more.
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Contact Us
If you need assistance with research and using our collections, please contact one of our divisions.
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Support the Library for the Performing Arts
Friends of Library for the Performing Arts receive discounts, invitations to exclusive online events, and more!
Current Exhibitions
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Room to Move: Dance Theater Workshop and Alternative Histories of Downtown Dance
Through September 13, 2025The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsExploring the history of Dance Theater Workshop through the archives of the Jerome Robbins Dance Division.
Events
See All-
Across a Crowded Room 2025: Networking for Actors and Directors
Saturday, July 19 | 11 AM -
The Library for the Performing Arts Play Club [VIRTUAL]
Monday, July 21 | 6:30 PM -
Children’s Storytime: Surprise Reader
Wednesday, July 23 | 11 AM -
Children’s Storytime: Surprise Reader
Wednesday, July 23 | 1 PM -
Reading of the Unproduced Musical Stranger by Michael Friedman
Wednesday, July 23 | 4 PM -
Sekou McMiller and the Palladium Mambo Band
Wednesday, July 23 | 6 PM
About the Library for the Performing Arts
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts houses one of the world's most extensive combinations of circulating, reference, and rare archival collections in its field. These materials are available free of charge, along with a wide range of special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, and performances. An essential resource for everyone with an interest in the arts—whether professional or amateur—the Library is known particularly for its prodigious collections of non-book materials such as historic recordings, videotapes, autograph manuscripts, correspondence, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters and photographs.
Learn more about this location Learn about capital construction projects at this location