Community Corner
Discover the Magic: 10 Reasons Families Love the New York Society Library
With more than 10,000 books, the New York Society Library is a true gem on the Upper East Side.
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Did you know there’s a cozy, vibrant, book filled haven just for children and teens tucked inside the New York Society Library?
With more than 10,000 books, inviting reading spaces, dedicated librarians, and community-wide engagement, the Children’s & YA Library is a true gem on the Upper East Side.
Here are the top ten reasons families love being part of this special place.
1. A Warm, Magical Space Designed for Kids and Teens
A welcoming, child-centered centered environment filled with comfortable reading nooks, playful touches, and displays of artwork created by young library visitors. In addition to the main Children’s Library, there is also a separate Young Adult room, offering teens a space of their own to browse, read, and explore the thoughtfully selected YA collection.
2. More Than 10,000 Carefully Selected Books
From cherished classics to the newest releases, graphic novels to nonfiction wonders, our shelves are filled with handpicked titles for every reader and interest.
3. Thoughtful, Expert Librarians
Knowledgeable librarians help families discover great reads, introduce young readers to new genres, and offer personalized recommendations.
4. Enriching Events for Babies Through Teens
Storytimes, author visits, workshops, and creative programs inspire joy, curiosity, and a lifelong love of books and reading. Subscribe to learn about events!
5. Celebrated Annual Creative Awards
Young readers can showcase their work through the Young Cartoonists Awards and the Young Writers Awards, beloved opportunities for imagination, expression, and recognition.
6. Heartfelt Community Love
Families and authors regularly share how much the Society Library means to them — and their words say it best:
“The Children's Library is truly a haven for New York City readers. It is a gem of a spot, filled with beloved classics and new releases alike. When I imagine the perfect library, I think of this precious place.” — Karina Yan Glaser, Newbery Honor medalist for The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli
I love the Children’s Library because you can get books just for kids like comics, biographies, Magic Tree House, Investigators, and more! -- Zain, 6
“Because of storytime, drawing, reading!” — Victor, age 5
“I love the nurturing space where my child can sit and peruse as many books as she likes. It's a beautiful, quiet library with a wonderful, curated selection: a place to share my appreciation of reading with my child. Thank you, NYSL!” — Odile Weissenborn Gordon
7. Open Seven Days a Week
With extensive hours and a prime location at 53 East 79th Street, just steps from Central Park, families can visit whenever inspiration strikes.
8. Try the Library with a Weekend Family Day Pass
Not ready for membership yet? The Family Day Pass, available on weekends, lets families enjoy a full day in the Children’s Library—browsing the shelves, relaxing in the cozy reading spaces, and getting a true feel for what makes this place so special. It’s the perfect way to experience the Library’s atmosphere and offerings before becoming a member.
9. Supporting Literacy Across NYC Through Project Cicero
From February 26–March 5, the Library serves as a drop-off off location for Project Cicero, a citywide effort bringing books to public school classrooms in need. Anyone is welcome to donate new or gently used children’s and YA books. Learn more about how to donate or volunteer.
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10. A Home for Growing Readers, Learners, and Explorers
The Children’s & YA Library is a place where children discover who they are as readers, writers, and thinkers—supported by a warm, vibrant community devoted to nurturing their curiosity and creativity.
Come Discover the Magic
Whether your child is just beginning their reading journey or blossoming into an avid booklover, the Children’s & YA Library offers a world of stories, creativity, and community waiting to be explored.
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