Being one of the world’s most famous cities, a famous tourist destination, and a locale for students, New York has plenty to offer. In the midst of all the things you need to do as a student, especially in such a busy metropolitan, you’ll want a space where you can study in peace that’s different from your room.

The best spot for this is either at your college library or, better yet, a public library. There are multiple public libraries in New York with ample space, books in different fields and interests, and stunning views and architecture. To ensure you get the best public libraries in NY, we’ve compiled a list of the ones you should definitely check out!

New York Public Library

Of the many libraries in New York for students, the New York Public Library has about 90 branches throughout the metropolitan area. Their branches are located in Manhattan, The Bronx, and Staten Island. The library’s most notable branch is the New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. This particular library branch is known for its architecture, its ornate ceilings, and the lions alongside the library’s steps.

The NYPL branches come with numerous amenities that help make your stay even more comfortable, including Wi-Fi access, photocopiers, scanners, research centres, and cafes. Additionally, most New York Public Library branches are accessible.

Working Hours and Location: The library’s opening hours vary according to location. You can check all the locations and schedules by visiting the New York Public Library website.

NYPL for the Performing Arts: A Haven for Creatives

Tucked away inside the famous Lincoln Center, this library is a great place for any student studying music, dance, theater, or film. The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts houses one of the most extensive performing arts collections on the planet.

Here, you can reserve a station to watch rare recordings of Broadway shows, read original scripts, or listen to obscure vinyl records. It's a specialized and inspiring place, offering resources that go far beyond what a typical university library can provide.

Location: 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023

Working 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
  
  

Brooklyn Public Library - One of New York’s Largest Library Systems

Among the many public libraries in New York, the Brooklyn Public Library definitely stands out. This library serves as a completely free-of-charge place where you can work, study, or research. There’s also an on-site cafe where you can grab a coffee and refuel in between your sessions.

The library gives out free library cards for students in New York, and it hosts a lot of student-related events, as well as developmental, career, and interview prep workshops, which are very beneficial for the average student. The library also has plenty of physical and digital materials and multiple public and private reading rooms.

Working Hours and Location: The library’s opening hours vary according to location, as there are several of them. You can check all the locations and schedules for each branch by visiting the Brooklyn Public Library’s website.

Albany Public Library, Bach Branch

Albany Public Library’s brand new Bach branch is a modern one with sleek exteriors and partially glass walls. This library has a big selection of free programs, including science experiments, ballroom dancing, and even a LEGO club, among others.

This library has something for everyone and provides a peaceful environment for working, studying, or simply enjoying a good book.

Location: 455 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208

Working Hours: 

• Monday: 10 AM – 6 PM

• Tuesday: 12 PM – 8 PM

• Wednesday: 10 AM – 6 PM

• Thursday: 12 PM – 8 PM

• Friday: 12 PM – 6 PM

• Saturday: Closed

• Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM

The Morgan Library and Museum

Once a private entity, The Morgan Library and Museum was gifted to the public back in 1924. It’s now open to visitors and houses vast collections of rare books and manuscripts, art objects, prints, and ancient artefacts that were once collected by the library’s namesake, Morgan. 

It is more of a museum than a library, as it has a lot of regularly held exhibitions and galleries. Regardless, a visit to The Morgan is definitely worth the admission fee. If you’d prefer not to pay a fee, then don’t worry. The library offers free entry on Fridays from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. 

Location: 225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street, New York, NY 10016

Working Hours: 

• Monday: Closed

• Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 5 PM

• Wednesday: 10:30 AM - 5 PM

• Thursday: 10:30 AM - 5 PM

• Friday: 10:30 AM - 8 PM

• Saturday: 10:30 AM - 5 PM

Montauk Library

Montauk Library is home to a huge collection of physical books, as well as ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and journals that you can borrow. This library offers its patrons a number of services, including Wi-Fi, printing, and computer workstations. 

The events and programs held at Montauk Library are really helpful for students and include tech lessons, yoga, movie nights, bilingual storytime, and English conversation groups. 

Location: 871 Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954

Working Hours: 

• Monday: 9 AM – 6 PM

• Tuesday: 9 AM – 6 PM

• Wednesday: 9 AM – 8 PM 

• Thursday: 9 AM – 6 PM 

• Friday: 9 AM – 8 PM 

• Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM 

• Sunday: 1 PM – 6 PM

Jefferson Market Library

This library is easily one of the most unique buildings in the metropolitan area. The Jefferson Market Library in Greenwich Village is a Victorian Gothic-style "castle" that was originally a courthouse. It even has a clock tower and stained-glass windows.

The main adult reading room, located in the former courtroom, is a quiet and atmospheric place to study, surrounded by history. It’s a neighborhood favorite and a great choice when you want a cozy, inspiring spot that feels worlds away from the metropolitan bustle.

Location: 425 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10011
Working Hours: 

• Monday: 10 AM – 8 PM

• Tuesday: 10 AM – 8 PM

• Wednesday: 10 AM – 8 PM

• Thursday: 10 AM – 8 PM

• Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM

• Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM

• Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM

Wrapping Public Libraries in NY

Libraries will always be one of the best quiet study spots in New York, for good reason. These were only some of the few you can find in New York, if you look around, you’re sure to find another wonderful place that’s yours. Whether you need total silence, high-speed Wi-Fi, specialized archives, or just a beautiful room to get inspired, there’s a place waiting for you. 

If you want to make your search easier, many of our housing options in New York are near some of the best libraries, and if you want to learn more about New York, check out our related blogs: Student Living in New York: Where to Live in NY? and 6 Free Attractions in New York City.