The New York Public Library (NYPL) is a public library system in New York City. It is the second largest public library in the United States
The library has branches in the boroughs of Manhattan, Bronx and Staten Island. The branch libraries are open to the general public.
John Astor gave $400,000 for the creation of a public library. which was built in 1854
The size and importance of the library grew along with the city.