Bryant Park Reading Room

History

Established in 2003.

The original Reading Room began in August of 1935 as a public response to the Depression Era job losses in New York. The New York Public Library opened the «Open Air Library» to give these out-​of-​work businessmen and intellectuals a place to go where they did not need money, a valid address, a library card, or any identification to enjoy the reading materials.

The Bryant Park Corporation has recreated the Bryant Park Reading Room with the additions of custom-​designed carts for an extensive and eclectic selection of books, periodicals and newspapers; readings and programs at lunchtime, after work and for kids; movable furniture to create a more intimate environment; and kid-​sized carts and furniture for children to use. The programming, publications, and environment of the Reading Room are available to everyone for free.

For more information, please call or find us online:

Blog: blog​.bryant​park​.org

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