Though on-site library services are mostly on hold for now, our friends at nearby public libraries are working hard to expand their online collections and arrange for contactless "Grab & Go" pickups of library materials. The following guide explores recent expansions by New York Public Library (NYPL), Brooklyn Public Library (BPL), and Queens Library (QL) to their online collections. In addition, this guide breaks down the process of signing up for library cards and covers library services available from each system.
In response to the unprecedented crisis brought on by COVID-19, New York City's public libraries continue to expand their collections of:
- e-Books and magazines
- Audiobooks
- Research databases
- Music and video streaming platforms
- Image, photography, and local history collections
- Virtual arts and culture resources
For those of you with active public library cards, simply browse this guide to discover fun and useful resources. If you're in need of a library card, don't worry! The Getting Your e-Library Card page will walk you through the process of signing up for e-Cards with NYPL, BPL, and QL.
Of course, all libraries look forward to reopening and serving our users face-to-face when we are safely able to. Until then, we hope these online resources help you in your academic and creative work and in finding books, movies, magazines, and other materials to make your time at home that much more enjoyable.