Peachy Landmarks: Celebrating New York's Historic Libraries
New York Public Library - 42nd Street, circa 1915
Each month, the Landmarks Conservancy highlights a different architectural function or style to help you better appreciate the rich cultural legacy of this vibrant and exciting City.
So, in September, we’ll celebrate “Back to School” with a look at New York’s magnificent libraries.
The City is served by three public library systems … the Brooklyn Public Library (est. 1896) … the New York Public Library (est. 1895) serving the Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island … and the Queens Borough Public Library (est. 1896).
Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie helped fund the construction of 67 libraries in New York, most constructed between 1901 and 1923.
He employed some of the leading architects of the day including Babb, Cook & Willard, Carrère & Hastings, Herts & Tallant and McKim, Mead & White.
Many of the buildings were unique, constructed in a variety of styles including Beaux-Arts, Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Classical Revival and Spanish Colonial.
But all welcomed visitors through a prominent doorway, nearly always accessed by a staircase … which symbolized a patron’s elevation by learning. Similarly, outside virtually every library was a lamppost, meant as a symbol of enlightenment.
Through our Tourist In Your Own Town video series and Mystery Landmark competition, we’ll explore some of the City’s treasured libraries.
We have also created a Facebook Album with some historic photos from our archives for you to enjoy. Send us pictures of your favorite library building and we’ll post those too.
To find out more about New York’s libraries, visit the Brooklyn Public Library, the New York Public Library and the Queens Borough Public Library.
