The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, one of the Library’s renowned research libraries, houses one of the world's most extensive research collections in the fields of theatre, 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.

Notice: Due to new Library policy, e-bikes, e-scooters, and electronic transportation devices are not permitted inside any NYPL location. This does not apply to mobility aids.

Unlock the power of the Library with a new, special-edition library card commemorating 50 years of hip-hop! The card features imagery from the soundtrack cassette of the iconic 1983 film Wild Style, directed by Charlie Ahearn, widely considered to be the first film dedicated to hip-hop. The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture's Moving Image and Recorded Sound Division holds the original cassette in its collections alongside key archives related to the birth and legacy of hip-hop. The cassette book, which was produced by Kaz Kuzui, includes photos of soundtrack producer Fab 5 Freddy and the “Wild Style” art that was created by artists Zephyr, Revolt, and Sharp.

Apply online or at a branch, and pick up your hip-hop library card from an NYPL location near you!