‘New York Society Library, NYC’s Oldest Library’

Explore a membership library dating back to 1754 that has been through it all, from getting looted by British soldiers during the American Revolution to George Washington forgetting to return two books (c’mon, George!).

Join New York Adventure Club for a digital showcase of the New York Society Library, the oldest cultural institution in New York City, which offers over 300,000 print volumes plus many online resources.

Led by several staff members from the New York Society Library, our virtual exploration of the library’s past, present, and landmarked building will include:

  • A brief introduction to the library’s rich history, with an overview of the 1917 John S. Rogers Italianate townhouse that’s been the library’s home since 1937
  • A discussion around the library’s most famous members, including George Washington, John Jay, Herman Melville, and Willa Cather
  • A walkthrough of the major public and member-only spaces, including the conservation studio and archives — with tips on book care from a library conservator
  • A detailed look at the current literary-themed exhibition with a library curator

Afterward, We’ll have a Q&A with the New York Society Library staff — any and all questions about the library are welcomed and encouraged!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

Testimonials

“It was great to get a peak inside a collection that I have been curious about for years.” -Sydney

“Living in “fly-over” country this platform allows me to enjoy BIG CITY events etc in an private tour format.” -Judy

“A good mix of information about the library, from the building itself to the famous people that have borrowed books.” -Laurie

“I liked the variety of speakers giving more depth to the inner workings of the library.” -Janet

“Rich in history, so very interesting and eloquent, and best of all, it was run by women (because females can do anything).” -Emily

“The staff described the many varied components of this wonderful place with great knowledge and enthusiasm.” -Carol

“Wonderful staff leadership! They clearly love their work and their library.” -Ron

“Everyone on the panel had something meaningful to add. The library has a rich history that was described in detail. The place and the personnel are incredible. The dedicated researchers, archivists and their creative exhibitions were impressive. I loved how one said she was “ravenous” for books and everyone nodded! And another said the “book smell” such an evocative expression of her love for the space and their mission. Well done!” -Helen

“The library sounds magnificent! I had not known about it! I cannot wait for healthier times to be able to visit! The history and descriptions of the various parts and collections and events was fascinating to me” -Ellen

“I love the detail and how knowledgeable the participants are. I’m a distance member and have only been there once but found it hard to leave. I never even made it upstairs. Now I have!” -Virginia

“I learned about a library that I never knew existed; I loved how beautiful the building was; the librarians clearly love their jobs and it was interesting to hear about the different jobs (conservator; childrens’ books, etc. ) and to hear thoughtful details such as how they have the YA books in their own area so that teens can have privacy but still be near their families. If I lived in NY I’d join in a heartbeat.” -Carol











When: Sat., Jul. 11, 2020 at 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Where: The New York Society Library
53 E. 79th St.
212-288-6900
Price: $10
Buy tickets/get more info now
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Explore a membership library dating back to 1754 that has been through it all, from getting looted by British soldiers during the American Revolution to George Washington forgetting to return two books (c’mon, George!).

Join New York Adventure Club for a digital showcase of the New York Society Library, the oldest cultural institution in New York City, which offers over 300,000 print volumes plus many online resources.

Led by several staff members from the New York Society Library, our virtual exploration of the library’s past, present, and landmarked building will include:

  • A brief introduction to the library’s rich history, with an overview of the 1917 John S. Rogers Italianate townhouse that’s been the library’s home since 1937
  • A discussion around the library’s most famous members, including George Washington, John Jay, Herman Melville, and Willa Cather
  • A walkthrough of the major public and member-only spaces, including the conservation studio and archives — with tips on book care from a library conservator
  • A detailed look at the current literary-themed exhibition with a library curator

Afterward, We’ll have a Q&A with the New York Society Library staff — any and all questions about the library are welcomed and encouraged!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

Testimonials

“It was great to get a peak inside a collection that I have been curious about for years.” -Sydney

“Living in “fly-over” country this platform allows me to enjoy BIG CITY events etc in an private tour format.” -Judy

“A good mix of information about the library, from the building itself to the famous people that have borrowed books.” -Laurie

“I liked the variety of speakers giving more depth to the inner workings of the library.” -Janet

“Rich in history, so very interesting and eloquent, and best of all, it was run by women (because females can do anything).” -Emily

“The staff described the many varied components of this wonderful place with great knowledge and enthusiasm.” -Carol

“Wonderful staff leadership! They clearly love their work and their library.” -Ron

“Everyone on the panel had something meaningful to add. The library has a rich history that was described in detail. The place and the personnel are incredible. The dedicated researchers, archivists and their creative exhibitions were impressive. I loved how one said she was “ravenous” for books and everyone nodded! And another said the “book smell” such an evocative expression of her love for the space and their mission. Well done!” -Helen

“The library sounds magnificent! I had not known about it! I cannot wait for healthier times to be able to visit! The history and descriptions of the various parts and collections and events was fascinating to me” -Ellen

“I love the detail and how knowledgeable the participants are. I’m a distance member and have only been there once but found it hard to leave. I never even made it upstairs. Now I have!” -Virginia

“I learned about a library that I never knew existed; I loved how beautiful the building was; the librarians clearly love their jobs and it was interesting to hear about the different jobs (conservator; childrens’ books, etc. ) and to hear thoughtful details such as how they have the YA books in their own area so that teens can have privacy but still be near their families. If I lived in NY I’d join in a heartbeat.” -Carol

Buy tickets/get more info now