Collections: Children's Literature

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Central Children's Room
Donnell Library Center, 2nd Floor
20 West 53rd Street
New York, NY 10019-6185
212.621.0636
dch@nypl.org

Originally housed in The New York Public Library's landmark Central Research Library on Fifth Avenue, the Central Children's Room is a national leader in children's services. Today, over 100,000 volumes provide a wealth of material for children of all ages, and for adults.

The Central Children's Room features non-fiction and reference books for children on all topics, as well as a literature collection rich in current and retrospective works. A noncirculating collection of 18th- and 19th- century children's books is available by appointment. The Central Children's Room also features a range of materials for adults about children's literature.

In addition, the Central Children's Room regularly holds such programs as films, story hours, and guest appearances by authors and illustrators. Mary Poppins's umbrella, and other unique items are on permanent display, and special exhibitions--often featuring original art by children's book illustrators--are scheduled regularly. Class visits may be arranged by appointment.

HOURS
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Collection highlights include:

  • Picture books on low, easy-to-reach shelves
  • 5,000 musical and spoken-word audiocassettes
  • Picture book audiocassette sets
  • Folklore and fairytales
  • Backfiles of periodicals for and about children
  • 9,000 books in languages other than English
  • Literary reviews, history, and criticism of children's literature
  • Biographies of children's book authors and illustrators