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New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

A world-renowned archive of dance, drama, and music located in the heart of Lincoln Center, offering free access to an extensive collection of performing arts materials.

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New York Public Library for the Performing Arts
www.nypl.org, og_image_www.nypl.org

What is the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts known for?

It houses one of the world's largest publicly accessible archives devoted to dance, drama, and music. It is particularly known for its extensive collections of non-book materials, including historic recordings, stage designs, autograph manuscripts, and photographs.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, admission is free. Additionally, public programs, film screenings, concerts, lectures, and workshops hosted by the library are free of charge.

Where is it located?

The library is located at 40 Lincoln Center Plaza in the Lincoln Center complex on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, situated between the Vivian Beaumont Theater and the Metropolitan Opera House.

What are the hours?

Regular public hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 AM to 8 PM, Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday from 1 PM to 6 PM. The library is closed on Monday.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Library for the Performing Arts is fully wheelchair accessible.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, known as the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center, is a premier research destination located at 40 Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side. It serves as one of the four research centers of the New York Public Library's Research library system and is one of the world's largest publicly accessible archives dedicated to dance, drama, and music. Situated between the Metropolitan Opera House and the Vivian Beaumont Theater, the library houses an extensive combination of circulating, reference, and rare archival collections. It is particularly noted for its prodigious collections of non-book materials, including historic recordings, videotapes, autograph manuscripts, correspondence, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters, and photographs. One of the most significant sections is the Billy Rose Theatre Division. Founded in 1932, it is recognized as the most extensive theatrical research collection in the United States. This division underwent several name changes, being renamed the Theatre Collection in 1980 and returning to its original name in 2009 to honor theatre producer and philanthropist Billy Rose. Visitors can engage with the arts through free public programs, including film screenings, concerts, lectures, and workshops. These events often take place in the 202-seat Bruno Walter Auditorium located on the lower level, providing a professional space for educational and artistic exploration.

Visitor tips

  • Admission is free, making it a great low-cost stop in the Upper West Side.
  • Check the schedule for free programs in the Bruno Walter Auditorium on the lower level.
  • The facility is fully wheelchair accessible for all visitors.
  • Note that the library is closed on Mondays.

Nearby context

The library is centrally located within the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts complex, nestled between the Metropolitan Opera House and the Vivian Beaumont Theater, with various dining options available in the surrounding neighborhood.

Sources

Evidence and links