Operates 92 branch libraries across Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island, plus four major research libraries. Provides free access to books, digital resources, Wi-Fi, programs, job search help, and community space to millions of New Yorkers annually. For many New Yorkers -- especially immigrants, job seekers, students, and seniors -- the library is the most important free public institution in their neighborhood. It's a de facto community center, computer lab, after-school program, and warming/cooling center rolled into one. The $153M city contribution is just one piece of NYPL's $425M total budget.
Spending
$153.5M
495 transactions →
Budget (Adopted)
$190.6M
$122.9M spent
Did You Know
NYPL holds nearly 53 million items, making it the second-largest library in the United States after the Library of Congress. Those two stone lions guarding the 42nd Street entrance are named Patience and Fortitude -- named during the Great Depression to remind New Yorkers of the qualities they'd need to get through hard times.
| THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY ASTOR LENOX AND TILDEN FOUNDATIO | $133.1M |
| LANMARK GROUP, INC. | $5.8M |
| SHI INTERNATIONAL CORP | $4.0M |
| NEW YORK CITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION | $2.9M |
| CDE AIR CONDITIONING CO INC | $2.9M |
Headcount
About 2,776 employees (76% full-time). $0 on the city payroll because NYPL is a private nonprofit that receives city funding -- its employees are not city workers
Who It Serves
All New Yorkers in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island (Brooklyn and Queens have their own separate library systems)
Category
Culture & Libraries