![The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts logo](/sites-drupal/default/files/2020-07/qFEyebCe_400x400.jpg)
New York, NY 10023
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.](/sites-drupal/default/files/styles/max_width_480/public/2023-10/LPA_2016_09_15_brochure_1200x600.jpg?itok=RXXhVE4I)
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.
Meet the Library for the Performing Arts’ New Executive Director
![Portrait of Roberta Pereira wearing a red dress with bookshelves in the background.](/sites-drupal/default/files/styles/max_width_480/public/2023-10/LPA_2023_10_04_Roberta-Pereira.jpeg?itok=8JjTslUF)
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
-
New! Free Digital Guide on Bloomberg Connects
Download Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app, to explore the Library for the Performing Arts on your mobile device.
-
Get Updates from the Library for the Performing Arts
We send out email newsletters once a month. Sign up for to get updates and information about our upcoming programs, articles, and news about the performing arts!
-
Space Rentals - Outdoor Terrace, Auditorium, and Gallery Spaces
Hosting an event? Make it at the Library for the Performing Arts! Read our brochure about our accommodations, and contact us at LPArentals@nypl.org.
-
From Our Blog
Read our blog posts from expert librarians, staff and fellows of the Library for the Performing Arts.
Learn More about the Library for the Performing Arts
-
Support the Library for the Performing Arts
Friends of Library for the Performing Arts receive discounts, invitations to exclusive online events, and more!
-
Shop
Visit the gift shop at the Library for the Performing Arts.
-
Contact Us
If you need assistance with research and using our collections, please contact one of our divisions.
Current Exhibitions
-
Photo Call: The Theater Photos of Joan Marcus and Carol Rosegg
Through September 28, 2024The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsPhoto Call: The Theater Photos of Joan Marcus and Carol Rosegg features an extensive selection of the many theater…
-
Reanimating Theater: The Photography of Friedman-Abeles
Through September 25, 2024The New York Public Library for the Performing ArtsThe Library for the Performing Arts animates the theater photography of the Freidman-Abeles Studio using lenticular printing.
Events
See All-
Martha Graham in Cuba
Thursday, September 12 | 6 PM -
New Short Musicals Debut: Across A Crowded Room Final Presentations
Saturday, September 14 | 11 AM -
Person Place Thing Live Recording with The Joffrey Ballet
Monday, September 16 | 6 PM -
The Library for the Performing Arts Play Club
Monday, September 16 | 6:30 PM -
What’s Happening? Deep Cuts from the Reserve Film and Video Collection
Thursday, September 19 | 5:30 PM -
Silent Clowns Film Series: The Vitagraph Film Co. Comedies
Saturday, September 21 | 2:30 PM
About the Library for the Performing Arts
![Interior of LPA.](/sites-drupal/default/files/styles/max_width_480/public/2023-10/lpa_exteriors_20140320_stills-9846%20%281%29.jpeg?itok=x1Mv9hIE)
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.
Learn more about this location Learn about capital construction projects at this location