Schwarzman Building

The Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division is one of the world’s premier map collections in terms of size, scope, unique holdings, diversity and intensity of use. Established in 1898, our holdings include more than 433,000 sheet maps and 20,000 books and atlases published between the 15th and 21st centuries. The collections range from the global to the local scale and support the learning and research needs of a wide variety of users.

In-Person Research

Researchers can access the collections in our splendid reading room (renovated in 2005) by browsing our open shelf reference books, our dictionary catalog or with the guidance of our staff. Most maps and atlases are stored on closed shelves and are typically brought to the reader in less than an hour. A valid library card is required. ( Apply for a card ) Laptops are welcome as our reading room is Wi-Fi enabled and equipped with ample power outlets. There are also six computer workstations with access to Digital Sanborn Maps:1867-1970, Google Earth, and Oasis NYC: community maps of New York City. Reproductions are made at the discretion of the staff and include photocopying and scanning. 

Plan Your Visit

We encourage you to plan your research visit. Please note that portions of our collection may be temporarily unavailable and requesting materials in advance will help you make the most of your visit.

• Contact us with your research questions at mapref@nypl.org
• Please note that portions of our collection are not yet searchable though the catalog or may be located in offsite storage and e-mailing us in advance will help you make the most of your visit. 
• If you have already identified the resources you would like to consult, you can request materials in advance of your visit.
• Request for onsite materials cannot be accepted beginning 30 minutes prior to closing.

Visits, Classes, and Tours

The Map Division welcomes requests for organizational tours, lectures, and class visits and similar events. Please submit your request for your organization or class using our Request Form. 

Online Research

Search our collections (acquired after 1971) using NYPL's online catalog, look at maps in the Digital Gallery, browse our NYC Land Atlases, read our New York City Maps research guide, help us georeference our antiquarian map collection using the NYPL Map Warper or lend NYPL a hand and have some fun tracing NYC's past using the new Building Inspector. Find out more about map collections, classes, programs and activities through our blog posts, tweets, Pinterest boards, Tumblr, Instagram and Facebook page. Or simply learn "How to Read a Map".