Ottendorfer Library | Manhattan, NY

I've been past here before and always loved the architecture and details on the buildings facet. I now know that it's a landmark and a historical library, still in operation.

Posted on: July 10, 2025

Super grateful for this public library. There are two floors, a robust “hold” section, and friendly staff. They only have book drop off inside the building, so unfortunately you can’t return your book outside of their open hours. They’re open Mon through Sat!

Posted on: November 04, 2023

Beautiful library designed by German-American architect William Schickel (1850-1907), originally built to serve the German community. In fact, it still says "Freie Bibliothek and Lesehalle" (free library and reading room) above the entrance. The architect, born in Wiesbaden, also designed the Century Building on Union Square that now houses Barnes & Noble.

Posted on: December 14, 2024

We sorely miss Thea (who transferred to Kips Bay Library). She was delightful with the children! Always warm and helpful, extremely knowledgeable about children's books, and was very dedicated to making it a fun and welcoming place.

Posted on: December 13, 2025

Beautiful space for author readings open mics, research, children’s space East Village, NY. Location

Posted on: August 19, 2024