Norman Foster, building a Center of Inspiration for All

This animated fly-through video takes you into The New York Public Library’s Central Library Plan, designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Norman Foster.

The New York Public Library’s Central Library Plan will create a state-of-the-art circulating library within its flagship 42nd Street location, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, restoring the 101-year-old landmark to its original mission while preserving its historic public spaces and enhancing research services.

The new circulating library will incorporate the books, programs, and services now found at our heavily used but seriously deteriorating Mid-Manhattan Library across Fifth Avenue and at our innovative Science, Industry and Business Library (SIBL) on 34th Street.

The project is expected to be completed in 2018. All three locations will remain open throughout construction.

More public library space than is currently available in all three locations combinedOpen 7 days a week, 12+ hours most daysUpdated facilities for Mid-Manhattan patrons without closing for renovationsBooks and DVDs to browse and check outNatural light and views onto Bryant ParkNew spaces for children and teensClassrooms, computer labs, expanded research areasBusiness Research Center and Job Search resourcesExpanded spaces for scholars and writersResearch materials properly preserved beneath Bryant ParkSavings that can be spent on new librarians and curators and more booksOn January 8, Community Board 5's Joint Landmarks and Education, Housing & Human Services Committee will hold a public meeting on the Library's plan at 6 p.m.

The Central Library Plan is a unique public-private partnership made possible with generous support from Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn, The New York City Council, the Empire State Development Corporation, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, Stephen A. Schwarzman, Abby S. Milstein and Howard P. Milstein, and an anonymous donor.

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