The New York Public Library is not just an enormous building with a myriad of books. In the 21st century, it is a systematized library network, which also includes various research centers. The public libraries network in New York provides its citizens with open access to both paper and electronic books, as well as different types of information. Anyone can use the library’s service, regardless of age. A variety of books are stored there and their number exceeds 51 million items. The public library serves over 18 million people every year. The electronic library is used by more than 32 million people annually, not just from New York, but from all over the world. Find out more at i-new-york.com.
Who is the founder of the library?
The history of the public library foundation begins in the second half of the 19th century. In particular, its founder is considered Samuel Tilden, who was the Governor of New York in the 19th century. Upon his death, he bequeathed a vast amount of money to create an entirely free city public library with a reading room, including its maintenance.
It should be noted that at that time two libraries were already functioning in the city. But they could hardly be called public libraries. One of them was opened in 1849. It was a small building where books were not lent out and reading time was limited. The other library consisted mainly of a personal collection of books from its founder. Special entrance tickets were required to visit it.
At the end of the 19th century, these two libraries had some financial difficulties. The number of citizens’ donations was getting smaller and the number of books was growing. Therefore, these two libraries became part of the new public library.
Construction of a new library
A very popular place was chosen for the future library building, the Croton Reservoir. It was indeed a particularly ambitious construction plan. On Fifth Avenue, they were going to build the most majestic seven-story building with the largest reading room, an innovative book delivery system and unique lion sculptures on the outside.
The public library became the largest marble building in the United States. All construction work was carried out slowly and carefully. In total, 9 million dollars was spent on public library construction. The last stage in the building activity of the library was the placement of more than 120 kilometers of bookshelves.
The first director of the city’s public library was John Shaw Billings. By then, he was considered one of the most prominent librarians.
The public library was opened in 1911. At that time, it had over a million books. On the first working day, the library received more than 30 thousand visitors. One of the most popular book authors among New Yorkers in the early 20th century was Mykola Yakovych Hrot. Also, the library was often visited by immigrants who wanted to learn more about the history of the country and the city they live in. Besides, they wanted to introduce themselves to historical heritage and American literature.
Furthermore, the administration of the new library concluded a contract with the New York authorities. It provided that the new public library will manage another 39 library branches in the city. In the 21st century, it is not just a massive library network, but also an electronic library that you can visit directly from home, choose e-books, audiobooks and so on.
From the first day of its opening, the public library has become an integral part of the cultural life of many citizens.
