The New York Public Library

So, you're in New York City. If you're looking for a great place to snap pictures and you dig astounding historical and architectural pieces of structure plus free wifi, then the New York Public Library is the place to be.

The New York Public Library (NYPL) is the most famous library in New York City- the second largest public library in the United States and third largest in the world. It is also known as the Stephen Schwarzman Building and is now 103 years old.

As if it's saying, "I'm the king of all libraries," NYPL is guarded by marble lions named 'Patience' and 'Fortitude'. It is surreal to walk through the library with a reading room fit for 500 patrons, reading with the aid of the library's original Carre-and-Hastings lamps.

For a bibliophile like myself, it was hard not to fall in love with this humongous building.  From the smell of the old books to its astonishing architecture to the intricate carvings and stunning hall - it was just breathtaking! I fell in love with its classic beauty and I suddenly became one of those annoying tourists who took tons of pictures and selfies in the reading room so I wonder how the people study or read with all the tourists constantly strolling in and out of the library hahaha!

At the main hall, I looked up to see the unbelievable murals on the ceiling and the chandeliers; and it felt like I was in a different period. There really is this vintage feel and smell in this library. The one thing I love about New York is that it preserves its structures to remind the people of its rich history and coming here was like being part of that significant past.

It isn't all books and librarians in NYPL. For tourists like me, there is a small gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and other stuff. Moreover, interesting books are on sale at  a mini-bookstore in the library.

NYPL is a worthy visit from a tourist's perspective because it is not only a library but a museum as well. Exhibits like a copy of the original Declaration of Independence, a Gutenburg Bible and 431,000 old maps are a must-see. There is nothing here but grandness.

THE BOOK THAT CHANGED THE WORLD. Gutenberg Bible was the first book printed using mechanical movable type.

Good news is - there is no entrance fee and no need to schedule your visit. There is a bag check so you might consider bringing smaller bags and less stuff for a quicker checking. There are free tours at 11:00 PM and 2:00 PM, from Monday to Saturday, and 2:00 PM Sunday (closed Sunday in summer).

HOW TO GET THERE:
New York Public Library Address: 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue
New York Public Library Cross Streets: 40th and 42nd Streets
New York Public Library Subways:Take the 7, B/D/F/V to 42nd Street/Bryant Park