The Library is busy preparing for a progressive reopening. As we begin the first phase of deconfinement, we are excited to launch a curbside lending service, by appointment. Please click on the button to the right for detailed information about curbside lending, including the comprehensive safety measures we’re taking to protect our community. You are welcome to return books Tuesday-Friday, 14h00-17h30. No appointment is necessary for returns.
Please note that the Library's facilities remain closed presently. All our programs and services will continue virtually. Sign up for e-Libris, our e-newsletter, for the latest information on virtual programming and the progressive reopening.

Short-term Memberships Available Online

There’s no better way to support the Library during this challenging moment in our history than to become a member or renew your membership.

In addition to annual subscriptions, four-month memberships are now available online, giving you access to all our electronic resources and virtual programming.

If you’re already a member, perhaps you know a student who needs access to online scholarly resources to complement their distance learning. Maybe you have a friend or family member who would appreciate a window to the world (the New York Times online, digital versions of the latest magazines, eBooks) from the safety of home. Consider the gift of membership today.

A Special Message from the Director

Throughout its long history, the Library has served its members in many ways: as a quiet place to write or read, as a refuge in wartime, as an academic resource, as a community for all ages. Two months ago, for the longest continuous period in our century of operations, we were forced to temporarily shut our doors. As a result we have developed—in an accelerated time-frame—another aspect of our twenty-first century identity, as a virtual gathering place and resource.

None of this would be possible without our members, volunteers, donors, and friends. Thank you for your support and generosity, from all of us at the Library!

At Home with the Library

In honor of the Library’s 100th birthday this year, we’ve launched At Home with the Library, a video series where stars from the stage and the page read from the works of writers whose own histories are interwoven with that of the Library. You’ll enjoy the words of Richard Wright, Julia Child, and Colette, all frequent guests at the Library, being brought to life by such luminaries as Claire Messud, Alan Cumming, Hala Alyan, and Blythe Danner.

Every few days in May (our birthday month), a new reading will be launched on our Instagram account via IGTV and on our Youtube channel. You can also watch the videos on the At Home with the Library webpage. Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest updates.

A special thanks to Denis O’Hare for his inspiration and leadership on the project.