Brooklyn Public Library

It all comes together here at the Central Library of the Brooklyn Library. If you can't get it here, you need to go to the New York Branch. But chances are, they have it here. First, the building. It's worth the trip just to see the architecture. The building is impressive and the main lobby does offer exhibits from time to time. But the helpful staff and the deep selection of books, that is why people come from all over to visit. Two huge floors open to the public, not including the reading room of books that you can only reference and the "special order" books available to read in the library. If you need it, you can get it here. Or they will order it for you. Great staff, by the way, and well worth the trip for that book you really need. more

A lot of people don't know that there are three public library systems in NYC: Brooklyn, Queens, and New York (which has branches in Manhattan, Staten Island, and the Bronx). Brooklyn's central library has the largest collection in Brooklyn (though it's also good to check online to see if the book's available) and the most events. The second floor meeting room hosts a rich array of readings, meetings, and music. The construction outside in the plaza will yield a new, much superior underground auditorium. Make sure to check out the central first floor space for a rotating series of art exhibits, as well as the second floor display cases for more art. more