NYPL - Grand Room
“There was something about the . . . light falling through the great tall windows, the sun burning smooth the tops of the golden tables as if they had been freshly painted—that made me restless with the need to grab up every book, press into every single mind right there on the open shelves.”
When one imagines a library, the images that come to mind are certainly of either countless scenes at the Library of Congress or of the Main Reading Room at the New York Public Library's location on 42nd and 5th ave. Whereas I have not gone to the Library of Congress in Washington D.C, the Main Reading room of the NYPL is one I have visited many a times.
This space is on the top floor of the majestic library which is known (among tourists mostly) for the iconic pair of lions that sit at the entrance and are now part of the NYPL logo. The library sits next to Bryant Square Park and is a key attraction for folks visiting NYC in the mid-town area (Bryant Square Park-Times Square-5th ave). Whereas most people do not go beyond snapping a quick selfie with the lions, for those that walk inside, stunning architecture and an experience of a lifetime awaits.
The Main Reading room runs the length of the library on the top floor and consists of rows of tables lit by bronze lamps and backed by sturdy chairs where people can read or study. On a sunny day, with the sunlight pouring through the windows all around the reading room (see pictures below), this effect is particularly mesmerizing.
I have fond memories of this space as in my early work days I used to work in the vicinity and often used this space to study for competitive exams that I was giving during that time.
NYPL - Chandelier atop the stairwell leading to the Grand Room...
NYPL - Ornate ceiling and chandeliers, combined with the light coming through the large windows, offer an incredible ambiance and an opportunity to experience history...
NYPL - Grand Reading Room...a must visit and one of the coolest places to see for free in New York City!