How to Get a (Temporary) New York Public Library Card Even If You Don’t Live in New York
One of the perks of living in a major city like New York is access to cultural institutions like the New York Public Library (NYPL). Even if you’re not really into books, a visit to the Stephen A. Schwartzman Building, the library’s flagship location (aka with two lions in front of the entrance), is worth it for the architecture alone.
But beyond the whimsical Beaux-Arts design, the NYPL’s collections and archives are not only huge, they also contain historical documents, photographs, art and ephemera that can’t be found anywhere else.
And while some of the library’s materials are digitized and available to the general public , access to other digital (and physical) collections requires a NYPL card. And to get one of them, you have to be a New Yorker. Usually.
From now until the end of May, people anywhere in the US can digitally access some of the NYPL’s online collections that are normally only available to cardholders. Here’s what you need to know.
How to Get a NYPL Digital Reader’s Card
In response to recent increasing nationwide attempts to ban books, the NYPL launched the “Books for All” campaign, part of which is to give readers anywhere in the US (ages 13 and over) free, immediate digital access to some of their collection. And, unlike some online libraries, you don’t have to wait for a digital copy to become available: all the titles in the collection are ready to read right now.
How to access the digital collection
Digital access is through NYPL’s free SimplyE e-book reader app, available for download on iOS and Android devices . Once you download and open the app, follow these steps:
- Select Add Library Later to view the Book Collection for Everyone.
- Enter your birth year to verify that you are 13 or older.
- Choose books and start reading
If you have already downloaded SimplyE to access collections from your local library, simply select the icon in the top left corner and switch to “Book Collection for Everyone”.
How to Get a Temporary NYPL Reader’s Card If You’re Visiting the City
Regardless of the Books for All campaign, if you are visiting New York City and would like to personally access the library’s collections and materials, you can apply online for a temporary library card before you travel or do so upon arrival at any branch of the system. (If you are under 12, in which case you must apply in person and invite a parent or guardian to sign.)
Regardless of your age, you will need to show a photo ID and proof of your home address (such as a passport and utility bill). Your temporary NYPL card is valid for three months. And although it can be extended, it must be done in person.