Library Love: New York Public Library

Today I have a guest post from Eileen Gunn from the popular family travel website, Families Go! I asked her to tell me about one of her favorite libraries to visit with kids, and I was very happy to see what she what she had to say.

One of my favorite recommendations to families exploring New York City is the central branch of the New York Public Library.

You might recognize the tall steps, the columns and the lions out front— named Patience and Fortitude by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia– from Ghostbusters and a whole host of other movies and television shows. The atrium just inside the entrance is tall and impressive, as are the 3rd-floor reading rooms. There might be a collection of photos or historic New York restaurant menus or a famous New Yorker’s letters on display in the collection rooms; you just never know.

Winnie the Pooh inspiration at the NY Public Library. Photo Credit: Families Go!

But the best part for families is downstairs in the sizable children’s room. The library is home to the original stuffed animals that inspired A.A. Milne to write Winnie the Pooh for his son: Pooh, Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, and Kanga are all there. They were recently away for a little while to be spiffed up, so they’re looking particularly smart these days.

Find out where you can currently see Winnie the Pooh's inspiration. #familytravel Click To Tweet

Unfortunately, kids can’t actually play with them. But there are plenty of books, and a reading room with mats where you can stretch out and read, a nice break from site-seeing, especially if it’s an extremely hot summer day or extremely cold winter one. If you’re exploring the areas around Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park or Grand Central Station stop by. While you’re there, take advantage of the free, clean, not-to-crowded bathrooms, too (a must with kids)!

Want to visit this library?

Address:
476 Fifth Avenue (42nd St and Fifth Ave)

New York, NY, 10018
https://www.nypl.org/about/locations/schwarzman

I never knew that the NY Public Library housed the inspiration pieces for the popular Winnie the Pooh series. Definitely on my list of places to visit the next time I’m in town. Thank you so much, Eileen!