40 Lincoln Center Plaza (entrance at 111 Amsterdam between 64th and 65th)
New York, NY 10023
917-275-6975
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Fully Accessible
Open today
10:30 AM–6 PM
Regular Hours
Day Hours
Monday 10:30 AM–8 PM
Tuesday 10:30 AM–6 PM
Wednesday 10:30 AM–6 PM
Thursday 10:30 AM–8 PM
Friday 10:30 AM–6 PM
Saturday 10:30 AM–6 PM
Sunday CLOSED

Welcome to the Library for the Performing Arts, Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center

Exterior of the Library for the Performing Arts.

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, one of NYPL’s renowned research libraries, houses one of the world's most extensive research collections in the fields of theater, film, dance, music, and recorded sound, as well as a wide array of circulating and reference materials.

The Library is open for unlimited browsing of our circulating collections and on-site research services either for walk-in service or by appointment.

In order to request access to special collections material, users will need to create a Special Collections account. Although it's not required, we encourage patrons to make an appointment with the relevant division by clicking the Research tab above. Find the division and make an appointment.

Notice: Due to new Library policy, e-bikes, e-scooters, and electronic transportation devices are not permitted inside any NYPL location. This does not apply to mobility aids.

Meet the Library for the Performing Arts’ New Executive Director

Portrait of Roberta Pereira wearing a red dress with bookshelves in the background.

The New York Public Library has announced Roberta Pereira as the new Barbara G. and Lawrence A. Fleischman Executive Director of the Library for the Performing Arts. Pereira is a highly respected theater and publishing professional with decades of experience opening up the arts to diverse audiences and professionals. Learn more.

In the Spotlight

Learn More about the Library for the Performing Arts

Current Exhibitions

About the Library for the Performing Arts

Interior of LPA.

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts houses one of the world's most extensive combinations of circulating, reference, and rare archival collections in its field. These materials are available free of charge, along with a wide range of special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, and performances. An essential resource for everyone with an interest in the arts—whether professional or amateur—the Library is known particularly for its prodigious collections of non-book materials such as historic recordings, videotapes, autograph manuscripts, correspondence, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters and photographs. 

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