Strategies for Dominion over New York's Central Library
The New York Public Library (NYPL) is an invaluable resource for those seeking primary source material and underutilized treasures. One such hidden gem is the library's microfiche library, located on the A floor, as recommended by author Rafi Lehmann.
To access the NYPL's extensive collection, you'll first need to obtain a library card. This can be done online through the official NYPL website at nypl.org/library-card/new. This digital card gives you immediate access to the library's digital resources such as eBooks, audiobooks, and databases.
To be eligible for a digital NYPL card, you must live, work, attend school, or pay property taxes in New York State. For proof of residency when applying in person (or as part of identity verification if requested for a digital card), you need to provide documentation showing your New York State residency, employment, school attendance, or property tax payment. Examples typically accepted include a government-issued photo ID or driver’s license with your New York State address, a utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail that shows your name and New York address, proof of employment or school enrollment in New York State, or documents showing property tax payments within New York State.
Once your application is approved online, NYPL sends you an account number and PIN via email to access digital materials immediately. If you need a physical card or full borrowing privileges, you may need to visit a branch and provide original documentation in person.
Before making a trip, check if the source you seek is not available online in the digital collection. If you need to access materials at NYPL, you'll need to request them ahead of your visit. If you don't, you'll need to submit a request on-site.
When using microfiche, bring the reel to the microfiche reading division and ask a staff member to set up the machine for you. Do not forget to return the box and reel to its original division before you leave.
For those who are new to the library or need assistance, you can contact the librarians at any division for assistance before your visit. There is also a guide available for the Rare Books and Special Collections.
With 92 locations in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, the New York Public Library offers a wide range of primary source material in their public collections. When other means of borrowing aren't sufficient, the New York Public Library can be accessed.
In summary:
- Apply for a library card online at nypl.org/library-card/new.
- Eligibility: Live, work, attend school, or pay property taxes in New York State.
- Proof of residency: NY State ID, utility bill, lease, employment or school documents, tax payment records.
- What you get: Digital card number and PIN for access to eBooks, audiobooks, and databases.
- Request materials ahead of your visit or submit a request on-site.
- When using microfiche, ask a staff member to set up the machine and return the box and reel to its original division.
- Contact librarians for assistance before your visit.
- Explore the underutilized treasures of the A floor's microfiche library.
- The NYPL has 92 locations in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
[1] NYPL - Library Card [2] NYPL - Library Card Eligibility [3] NYPL - Library Card Proof of Residency [4] NYPL - Library Card Application [5] NYPL - Library Card FAQ
- To access the extensive digital resources available at The New York Public Library (NYPL), apply for a library card through their official website at nypl.org/library-card/new.
- For junior researchers interested in home-and-garden topics, explore the underutilized treasures of the microfiche library located on the A floor at the NYPL, as recommended by author Rafi Lehmann. Living a sustainable-lifestyle could also yield interesting findings in this collection.
