If you live on the Upper East Side and like books, you’ve probably noticed the popularity of the Barnes and Noble bookstore on E. 86th St. No matter what time of day it is, it’s not uncommon to see readers camped out between racks of books, flipping intently through paperbacks. Does anyone go to the library anymore?
A recent tour of Upper East Side libraries showed that while they don’t offer coffee, they do offer other services above and beyond a bookstore and some locations, such as E. 96th St., still draw a crowd. Of course, they do close at 6:00p.m. on weekdays. Here’s what makes libraries worth checking out.
- Pick up tax forms (or tax extension forms at this point) and get help with filling them out
- Take out books and magazines (except the current issue) for three weeks
- Sign up to use free Internet and word processing for 45 minutes at a time
- View a wide selection of job search resources and help centers
- Rent CDs, DVDs, and books on tape
- Buy used books for $1
- Connect with your local community through bulletin boards and volunteering
It’s easy to get a library card that you can use immediately to check out materials. Just show a photo i.d. and a document with your current New York City address on it – a piece of mail addressed to you or a business card.
At some branches, you can book computer time over the phone or electronically in advance of your visit.
Upper East Side Libraries are listed below:
Webster Branch
Named after Charles B. Webster, who donated the original E. 76th Street library, this institution dates back to 1893, when it was known as the Webster Free Library. In 1906, construction of the E. 78th building, funded by Andrew Carnegie, was completed and the Webster Branch opened to the public. This instant hit with the Czech immigrant community in time attracted a more diverse community of Upper East Side residents.
67th Street Branch Library
This Carnegie-funded branch built with funds donated to the City of New York by Andrew Carnegie just reopened in 2005 with a fresh new interior after being renovated for the first since the 1950s. The 14,000-square foot library interior now has more computer space, a redesigned children's floor, and a community room. The bathrooms got a facelift, too.
Yorkville Branch Library
The Yorkville Branch Library is noted for its architecture -- Palladian-inspired and elegant. It was designed by architect James Brown Lord and first opened its doors to the public in 1902. This designated New York City Landmark is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places. In 1986-87, the interior underwent a complete renovation.
E 96th Street Branch
Opened in 1905 as another Carnegie Library, the E. 96th St. Branch Library brings the neighborhoods of Yorkville and East Harlem together. Of all the Upper East Side libraries, this location offers the widest selection of music in languages other than English and has the most table space open to the public for reading and working. This additional space is a result of a 1991 renovation.
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