This Location Is Temporarily Closed for Renovations

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125th Street Library is undergoing improvements and is not currently open to the public. Sign up for updates about this branch through your account, and learn more about NYPL’s capital projects. 

Find an open location near you with books and e-books, computer access, in-person and online programs and classes, expert recommendations from librarians, and more.

Rendering of the interior of the 125th Street Library renovation.

The renovation of the 117-year-old 125th Street Library will improve infrastructure and enhance service for all patrons. The 14,000-square-foot branch will get a remodel of its third floor (which has been inaccessible for decades); create dedicated and flexible spaces for programming; add individual reading areas for adults, children, and teens; and receive essential upgrades throughout including a new elevator, restrooms, and technology updates.

Update: Branch re-opening may be delayed due to proposed City budget cuts.

Featured at 125th Street Library

  • Social Work Student Interns

    Did you know?

    There are social work student interns at select library locations to help you find help with housing, food assistance, healthcare, short-term shelter and more.  Hours vary - click or call for more details.

    Social Work Student Interns

  • College and Career Pathways

    Looking for college guidance, career readiness, or adulting skills, The New York Public Library's College and Career Pathways program is here to help! Click here for informational videos and more!

    CCP

  • Get Event Updates for 125th Street Library

    Sign up to get updates and information about events and more at your local branch.

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  • Discover Books with Shelf Help

    Don’t know what you're looking for? Try Shelf Help, NYPL’s new personalized book-selection service! Tell us your reading interests and our librarians will pick five books for you and have them sent to your branch for pickup!

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  • Explore All Online Classes & Events

    People of all ages can engage with the Library through our online classes, programs, book clubs, and more.

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  • Find Community Support Resources

    During these challenging times, the Library is here to help our communities to find the resources they need.

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24/7 Resources

  • E-Books & E-Audiobooks

    Explore e-books and e-audiobooks available for free from NYPL—from children's books to bestsellers.

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  • Additional E-Materials & Databases

    Discover bestselling magazines, world newspapers, streaming classical and world music, and more from home with your library card.

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  • Digital Collections

    Search thousands of digitized items, including historic prints, photographs, maps, and manuscripts.

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  • From Our Blog

    Check out explorations on a wide array of topics, programs, and services across the Library.

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About the Library

Interior view of 125th Street Library

The 125th Street branch of The New York Public Library has served East Harlem since 1904. Reflecting the cultural diversity of the neighborhood, the library now offers books and magazines in English and Spanish and a strong African-American heritage collection.

Learn more about this location Learn about capital construction projects at this location