General Regulations

Materials will be delivered up to 15 minutes before closing. Readers should prepare to leave the reading rooms by the posted closing time. The hours for our research centers vary. (Schwarzman Building hours, The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts hours, Schomburg Center hours, Thomas Yoseloff Business Center at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL) hours)

The collections of the research libraries have been developed for advanced information and research needs and are for onsite use only. Materials in the branch libraries may circulate and can fulfill many information needs.

Parcels, bags, suitcases, etc. may not be taken into the reading rooms, but are to be left in Library check rooms. More specific rules may apply in individual units. People leaving the Library are required to submit for inspection all books, bags, briefcases, and other containers.

Materials in the Library stacks are obtained for use in reading rooms by filling out call slips and submitting them at the appropriate desk. Identification may be required for certain material. Assistance in completing call slips is available from Library staff. Each Research Library has special collections open to qualified researchers. Application for use of these materials should be made in the specific research unit. Learn more about accessing our collections.

Help us preserve these collections by handling them with care. After use materials are to be returned to designated points in the room.

Do not mark, write on, or otherwise mutilate library materials. Readers are responsible for any damage they cause to books, periodicals, or other materials. Any person who intentionally defaces, destroys, or otherwise mutilates Library property may be prosecuted under Section 264 of the New York State Education Law, or Section 145.00 Criminal Mischief, New York State Penal Law.

Permission to photocopy is dependent upon physical condition, donor restrictions, and copyright laws. To photocopy materials, consult with the appropriate Library staff member for permission and procedures.

Library computers are configured for specific functions. Bypassing library settings, loading unauthorized software, or otherwise tampering with or changing computer configurations is prohibited.

To use cameras, recording devices or similar equipment, consult the appropriate Library staff member for specific regulations. Personal laptop computers may be used in designated areas.

The Library strives to provide an atmosphere that facilitates learning. Library users are required to behave in an orderly manner conducive to the proper operation of a research library reading room. Disruptive behavior such as loud or continuous talking, sleeping, smoking, eating, drinking, using personal audio/video equipment, making disturbing noises or engaging in harassing or threatening behavior is prohibited. Talking on cell phones in the reading rooms is prohibited; cell phones should be turned off, and beepers set to vibrate. Proper attire, including shirt and shoes, is required at all times. Only service animals assisting persons with disabilities are permitted in the research centers.

All visitors are expected to comply with these general regulations. Any person violating these general regulations may be excluded from the research centers and may be subject to prosecution to the full extent permitted by law.