3 Midtown Libraries Reopen For Browsing, Research

MIDTOWN MANHATTAN, NY — After being limited for months to grab-and-go service, two public library branches in Midtown are among dozens across the city that reopened Monday for expanded services.

As of Monday, the 53rd Street Library (Central Midtown, near Fifth Avenue) and the Epiphany Library (East 23rd Street, near Second Avenue) now offer browsing and computer use, allowing patrons to peruse library shelves for the first time since they shut down last spring as the coronavirus swept the city.

Meanwhile, the flagship Stephen A. Schwarzman Building on Fifth Avenue near Bryant Park reopened Monday for limited research services, by appointment only. Patrons can book a virtual consultation with a library staff member to determine whether they need to make an on-site appointment

At the other branches, Shelf-browsing will be capped at limited periods of time, and computers can be accessed by appointment, the New York Public Library said in a news release. All patrons must wear masks, maintain social distancing and respect the time limits.

Accidentally was the first person to enter the reopened New York Public Library main branch
— Jake Bittle (@jake_bittle) May 10, 2021

"This is another one of these turning point moments: to have the libraries back for everyone," Mayor Bill de Blasio said during a Monday news conference.

The reopened libraries were chosen for their size, proximity to public transportation and building condition, the NYPL said. More branches will reopen in the summer, and the city's libraries are hoping to fully reopen "as soon as possible in 2021," according to a news release.

"From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Library has worked to safely offer New Yorkers the resources and services that we know they need. It has been a long, challenging year, and we are eager to restore library service to some semblance of normalcy," said New York Public Library President Anthony W. Marx said in a statement.

"This expansion of service — including computer use, critical for patrons who do not have internet access at home — is a significant and welcome step in that direction."