The central location of one of the world’s biggest library systems is a cultural hub as well, with a huge number of events, classes and programs.
From its location to its programming, the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Branch is central in many ways. Adjacent to Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum, the library is a popular stop on a tour of the borough’s grand public buildings. Come see the sights and browse the collections on a visit to Brooklyn Public Library, take a class or attend one of the many literary and cultural events hosted in the auditorium.
Brooklyn Public Library was designed and built over nearly 30 years during the early 20th century. Its beautiful façade looks like an open book, decorated with bronze figures referencing classics of American literature.
Stand on the plaza outside to identify the references on the outside decoration, with figures from Walt Whitman to Moby Dick and classic American folk tales. In summertime, linger to appreciate the atmosphere, as concerts take place on the small lawns and people sit and chat at the WiFi-accessible café tables.
Enter the lobby and note the services offered here, cementing the library’s role at the heart of Brooklyn’s civic life.
Have coffee or a meal from the café and sit at one of the tables, listing to the extensive range of languages spoken. Check out the event listings and join an exercise class or skill-building seminar. Listen to famous authors discuss their books. Participate in a creative writing class to try to become one of the more than 1 million pieces of the written word stored here.
The Brooklyn Public Library Central Branch is located in the heart of Central Brooklyn at the entrance to Prospect Park. The closest subway is at Grand Army Plaza, across the street, a 10-minute subway ride or 25-minute walk from Atlantic Terminal. Get here in about 40 minutes from Midtown Manhattan by car or subway. The library has no public parking lot, but metered parking is available on the street and at the Brooklyn Museum a few blocks away.
The library is open daily from morning to late at night, but only on afternoons on Sundays. A library card is required to access some services. Select events may be ticketed.
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