Since its creation in 1915, the Picture Collection has met the needs of New York's large community of artists, illustrators, designers, teachers, students, and general researchers. Covering over 12,000 subjects, the Picture Collection is an extensive circulating collection and reference archive, the largest of its kind in any public library system.
About the Division
NYPL’s Picture Collection Has Moved!
If you are looking to use the Picture Collection, please visit us in Room 119 or email us: picturecollection@nypl.org
Visiting the Collection
Can researchers access the collection without an appointment?
Patrons are welcome to walk in without an appointment to use our public reading rooms, including the Picture Collection in Room 119. As seating is limited, Room 119 is reserved for the use of Picture Collection materials only and seats in this division are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are virtual consultations available and are they required before making an onsite research appointment?
Please email us at picturecollection@nypl.org to make a virtual consultation appointment.
Who can researchers contact with further questions?
Please email us at picturecollection@nypl.org with any additional queries.
Request a Class Visit
Our staff welcomes students and instructors to explore the collections and resources at our landmark 42nd Street building. We work with instructors to design sessions that use the Library’s remarkable collections to foster creative inquiry, cultivate critical thinking, and develop information literacy skills. Learn more.
Featured
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How to Use the Picture Collection
This LibGuide offers an introduction to how to explore the 1.5 million pictures available to researchers for visual inspiration and context.
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Digital Collections
Interact with digitized items from the Picture Collection.
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Taryn Simon // The Color of a Flea’s Eye: The Picture Collection
Discover the work of artist Taryn Simon in this exhibition that explores the history of the Picture Collection.
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From Our Blogs
Check out blogs from the expert librarians of the Picture Collection.
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Worth Beyond Words
Learn about Romana Javitz and the history of the Picture Collection.
