The Rose Main Reading Room on the 3rd floor of the New York Public Library is one of the most spectacular rooms in the city and one of the world’s grandest interiors. However, over time, it fell into serious disrepair – the ceiling murals were barely discernible and windows remained blackened (done during World War II due to fear of air raids). A restoration was completed in 1998, with a 15 million dollar gift from the Rose family.
The room is nearly two city blocks long (297 feet), 78 feet wide, and 51 feet high (note: this photo only shows one half of the room). It seats 636 people at its long oak tables with original bronze lamps and chandeliers. Here you can access 6 million books, 12 million manuscripts, and 2.8 million photos beneath magnificent ceilings with murals of blue sky and puffy clouds, inspired by Tiepolo and Tintoretto. See more photos here. This room is a must see for visitors and residents alike…
how amazing is that. fantastic! a must-see in NY
thank you for sharing the inside view to one across the globe.
The crazy thing is that it’s such a big room with so many people in it and it’s almost dead silent.
amazing place and great shot!
Amazing room! I’d love to visit it! One day I must to travel to New York!
Superbe salle, tres impresionnante. Tres belles photos.
oh dear..wow!! a book lovers heaven. Would definitely visit this library if I visit new york!
Wow, spectacular shot of this room. I appreciate learning of it here and am putting it on the mental must see list for NYC. I’m wondering what lens you used to capture this so well? Thanks,
-Kim
I recently switched from a point and shoot to a Canon 30D with a zoom lens: 17-85mm f/4.5-5.6 IS USM
Brian
I’ve moved from NYC to SF and am desperately searching for a place like the Rose Reading Room where I can hunker down and get into my readings/writings. The Rose Reading Room had such amazing energy – there was genius in that silent, studious air. I miss it so much. It’s classic NYC, that room.