
New York, NY 10023
Day | Hours |
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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 |
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 either for walk-in service or by appointment.
In order to request access to special collections material, users will need to create a Special Collections account. Although it's not required, we encourage patrons to make an appointment with the relevant division by clicking the Research tab above. Find the division and make an appointment.
Notice: Due to new Library policy, e-bikes, e-scooters, and electronic transportation devices are not permitted inside any NYPL location. This does not apply to mobility aids.
Just Dropped! Special-Edition Hip-Hop Library Card

Unlock the power of the Library with a new, special-edition library card commemorating 50 years of hip-hop! The card features imagery from the soundtrack cassette of the iconic 1983 film Wild Style, directed by Charlie Ahearn, widely considered to be the first film dedicated to hip-hop. The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture's Moving Image and Recorded Sound Division holds the original cassette in its collections alongside key archives related to the birth and legacy of hip-hop. The cassette book, which was produced by Kaz Kuzui, includes photos of soundtrack producer Fab 5 Freddy and the “Wild Style” art that was created by artists Zephyr, Revolt, and Sharp.
Apply online or at a branch, and pick up your hip-hop library card from an NYPL location near you!
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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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 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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Border Crossings: Exile and American Modern Dance 1900-1955
Through March 16, 2024The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsThe New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center celebrates the fundamental contributions of…
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Regina Resnik, A New York Treasure
Through February 10, 2024The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsThe Music and Recorded Sound Division of the Library for the Performing Arts presents this exhibition of materials from the opera singer…
Events
See All-
The Dr. Kothari Honorary Lecture: Malavika Sarukkai on Bharatanatyam Dance
Monday, September 25 | 6 PM -
Raj Bhimani Performs Germaine Tailleferre in New York
Thursday, September 28 | 6 PM -
Heiva Pasifika NYC 2023
Friday, September 29 | 10:30 AM -
Heiva Pasifika NYC 2023
Saturday, September 30 | 10:30 AM -
Agnes de Mille and the Intrinsic American
Monday, October 2 | 6 PM -
NYPL LP Club: The Band: "The Band" Online Group
Tuesday, October 3 | 1 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.
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