The latest example of donor recognition at the New York Public Library is the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library. Located just south of the lions on 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, it used to be known as the Mid-Manhattan. It's still the system's largest circulating branch. I started my tour at the top, where there's a cafe and plenty of space for social distancing.
I doubt if you'll find a more pleasant indoor public space in midtown. Light and wood fill the building in addition to books and computers. But not too many people, at least on a Monday morning before noon. The city's voluminous temple of knowledge felt like a bright, calm and mostly silent oasis with plenty of restrooms.
Nice spot to read a magazine, no?
Once upon a time, I would have stood in this line to check out books, mostly novels, all of which are now available on line through NYPL's terrific Simply E app.
Did you know you can return an NYPL book to any branch? The architects even put the sorting machinery on display.
(Masked) Lego creations and stuffed animals add an FAO Schwartz feel to the colorful Children's Center. NYPL's embrace of diversity made me proud to have once worked there.
This giraffe needed a hug.
Teens have their own recording studio.
The building's thoughtful design emphasizes the branch's relationship with the Central Research Library across the street by decorating the entrance with a lion. Note bene: the fabulous Picture Collection, which Andy Warhol ransacked for inspiration in this location, moved there in 2017.
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