This New York Public Library Just Got a $200 Million Makeover — Complete With a Free Public Rooftop

Manhattan will soon have its first publicly accessibly - and free - rooftop terrace, thanks to the New York Public Library.

May 4, 2025 · 1 min · 47 words · Brianna Wright

Borrowing books isn’t the only free service this library offers.

Surrounding it is a programming room enclosed in glass, plus an indoor public cafe alongside the terrace.

This is what a recovery for all of us looks like."

New York Public Library Manhattan location rooftop and interior renovations

Credit: Max Touhey

New York Public Library Manhattan location rooftop and interior renovations

Max Touhey

New ground floor of NYPL

John Bartelstone

New York Public Library Manhattan location rooftop and interior renovations

Max Touhey