
New York, NY 10023
Day | Hours |
---|---|
Monday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Tuesday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Wednesday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Thursday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Friday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Saturday | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Sunday | CLOSED |
Day | Date | Hours |
---|---|---|
Monday | 5/30 | CLOSED |
Tuesday | 5/31 | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Wednesday | 5/25 | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Thursday | 5/26 | 10:30 AM–5 PM |
Friday | 5/27 | 10:30 AM–6 PM |
Saturday | 5/28 | CLOSED |
Sunday | 5/29 | CLOSED |
Welcome to the Library for the Performing Arts, Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, one of the Library’s renowned research libraries, houses one of the world's most extensive research collections in the fields of theatre, film, dance, music, and recorded sound, as well as a wide array of circulating and reference materials.
The Library is open for unlimited browsing of our circulating collections and on-site research services by appointment and for walk-in service.
In order to request access to special collections material, users will need to create a Special Collections account. Patrons must make a research appointment with the relevant division by clicking the Research tab above.
What's New at the Library for the Performings Arts

We're excited to share the first rendering of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab designed by David Rockwell. The lab will allow theatre creatives to stream content from the archives at the Library for the Performing Arts, rehearse along with them, record themselves, and ultimately create new work.
Coming Soon—Lou Reed: Caught Between the Twisted Stars

On June 9, 2022, the Library for the Performing Arts will mount Lou Reed: Caught Between the Twisted Stars, the first large-scale exhibition featuring previously unseen and unheard work from Reed’s incredible archive—part of the Library's archive since 2017. The exhibition is curated by Don Fleming and Jason Stern.
Learn More About the Exhibition
In the Spotlight
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Get Updates from the Library for the Performing Arts
We send out email newsletters once a month. Sign up for to get updates and information about our upcoming programs, articles, and news about the performing arts!
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Annual Report
Learn more about our mission, activities and events in our Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2021.
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Space Rentals - Outdoor Terrace, Auditorium, and Gallery Spaces
Hosting an event? Make it at the Library for the Performing Arts! Read our brochure about our accommodations, and contact us at 212.870.1698 or LPArentals@nypl.org.
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From Our Blog
Read our blog posts from expert librarians, staff and fellows of the Library for the Performing Arts.
Learn More about the Library for the Performing Arts
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Support the Library for the Performing Arts
Friends of Library for the Performing Arts receive discounts, invitations to exclusive online events, and more!
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Contact Us
If you need assistance with research and using our collections, please contact one of our divisions.
Current Exhibitions
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Climate, Environment, and the Performing Arts
OngoingThe New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsMaterials from the dance, theatre, and music & recorded sound divisions address how the performing arts have responded to climate…
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Akhnaten: Philip Glass’ Operatic Portrait of a Pharaoh
Through June 18, 2022The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsCelebrating the return of Phillip Glass' Akhnaten, the Library for the Performing Arts delves into the archives.
Events
See All-
Outdoor Family Storytime
Tuesday, May 31 | 10:30 AM -
Outdoor Family Storytime
Tuesday, May 31 | 11:15 AM -
NYPL LP Club: Randy Newman: "Sail Away" Discussion Group
Tuesday, May 31 | 1 PM -
NYPL LP Club: Randy Newman: "Sail Away" Discussion Group
Tuesday, May 31 | 5 PM -
Music & Recorded Sound Storytimes on Lincoln Center’s Deck in Damrosch Park: Who is Florence Price?
Wednesday, June 1 | 11:30 AM -
The African Grove: Locating the Legacy of America’s First Black Theater
Thursday, June 2 | 6 PM
About The Library for the Performing Arts

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts houses one of the world's most extensive combinations of circulating, reference, and rare archival collections in its field. These materials are available free of charge, along with a wide range of special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, and performances. An essential resource for everyone with an interest in the arts—whether professional or amateur—the Library is known particularly for its prodigious collections of non-book materials such as historic recordings, videotapes, autograph manuscripts, correspondence, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters and photographs. Discover more about The Library for the Performing Arts circulating, reference, and rare archival collections.
Learn more about this location Learn about capital construction projects at this location