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 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.
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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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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Support the Library for the Performing Arts
Friends of Library for the Performing Arts receive discounts, invitations to exclusive online events, and more!
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Contact Us
If you need assistance with research and using our collections, please contact one of our divisions.
Current Exhibitions
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Lou Reed: Caught Between the Twisted Stars
Through March 4, 2023The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsThe first large-scale exhibition featuring previously unseen and unheard work from Lou Reed’s archive. -
Focus Center Stage: 50 Years of the Theatre on Film and Tape Archive
Through February 25, 2023The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsA look back at the archive, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Theatre on Film and Tape and how it affected theatre history.
Events
See All-
Songbook: Broadway's Future New Holiday Songs
Monday, November 28 | 6 PM -
The Dance Historian is In 10th Anniversary: Remembering David Vaughan [In Person and Streaming]
Wednesday, November 30 | 1 PM -
Creating Your Own Audition Tape
Thursday, December 1 | 6 PM -
Drag Story Hour for Adults: Paris is Burning
Friday, December 2 | 6 PM -
Drag Story Hour NYC
Saturday, December 3 | 11 AM -
Limón and the Latin Legacy Symposium - Open Community Discussion
Saturday, December 3 | 2:30 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. Discover more about The Library for the Performing Arts circulating, reference, and rare archival collections.
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