The Bryant Park Library Rose Room, officially known as the Rose Main Reading Room, is a magnificent space within the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Located adjacent to Bryant Park, this iconic room spans nearly two city blocks and features 52-foot-high ceilings adorned with murals of vibrant skies and billowing clouds. With its grand windows, ornate details, and rows of oak tables, the Rose Room serves as a sanctuary for readers, researchers, and admirers of architectural beauty in the bustling heart of Manhattan.
What is the History of the Bryant Park Library Rose Room?
The Rose Main Reading Room has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century:
- Opened in 1911 as part of the New York Public Library’s main branch
- Named after library trustees John L. Cadwalader and Stuart Dodge
- Underwent a major restoration in 1998, funded by a $15 million gift from Sandra Priest Rose and Frederick P. Rose
- Closed in 2014 for a two-year renovation to repair a fallen rosette from the ceiling
- Reopened in 2016 with reinforced ceilings and restored murals
What are the Architectural Features of the Rose Room?
The Rose Room is renowned for its stunning architecture and design elements:
- Dimensions: 78 feet wide by 297 feet long – nearly the length of two city blocks
- Ceiling height: 52 feet, featuring murals of skies with billowing clouds
- Windows: Massive arched windows allowing natural light to flood the space
- Chandeliers: Elegant brass chandeliers illuminating the room
- Furnishings: Long oak tables with brass lamps, providing seating for up to 500 readers
- Bookshelves: Lining the walls, housing thousands of reference volumes
How Can Visitors Access the Bryant Park Library Rose Room?
Accessing the Rose Room is straightforward for both researchers and casual visitors:
- Enter the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at 476 Fifth Avenue
- Proceed to the third floor
- The Rose Room is open during regular library hours:
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
For those not conducting research, a special visiting hour is available:
– Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (last entry at 10:50 AM)
What Services are Available in the Rose Room?
The Rose Room offers a range of services for researchers and visitors:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Research Materials | Access to extensive reference collections |
| Study Space | Quiet areas for reading and study |
| Wi-Fi | Free wireless internet access |
| Computer Terminals | Public computers for research and internet use |
| Librarian Assistance | Expert help with research queries |
| Book Delivery | Request books from the stacks to be delivered to your desk |
What Rules Should Visitors Follow in the Bryant Park Library Rose Room?
To maintain the room’s serene atmosphere and protect its resources, visitors must adhere to specific rules:
- Maintain silence or speak in hushed tones
- No food or beverages allowed
- Use pencils only for note-taking (no pens)
- Handle books and materials with care
- No flash photography or tripods
- Keep personal belongings close and supervised
- Present ID and have bags checked upon entry
How Does the Rose Room Support Research and Learning?
The Rose Room plays a crucial role in supporting academic and personal research:
- Houses over 25,000 reference books freely accessible on open shelves
- Provides access to millions of items from the library’s vast collections
- Offers specialized databases and digital resources
- Hosts librarians with expertise in various fields to assist researchers
- Provides a quiet, inspiring environment conducive to focused study and writing
What Notable Events or People are Associated with the Rose Room?
The Rose Room has a storied history of notable visitors and events:
- Served as a workspace for countless writers, including Norman Mailer and E.L. Doctorow
- Featured in films such as “Ghostbusters” and “The Day After Tomorrow”
- Hosted exhibitions of rare books and manuscripts
- Welcomed world leaders, celebrities, and scholars for research and events
- Served as a set for fashion shoots and television productions
How Has Technology Impacted the Rose Room’s Function?
While maintaining its historic charm, the Rose Room has adapted to technological advancements:
- Installation of Wi-Fi throughout the space
- Addition of computer terminals for digital research
- Implementation of an electronic catalog system
- Digitization of many rare and fragile materials for easier access
- Integration of power outlets at reading tables for personal devices
What Conservation Efforts Ensure the Rose Room’s Preservation?
Preserving the Rose Room’s beauty and functionality requires ongoing efforts:
- Regular cleaning and maintenance of architectural features
- Climate control systems to protect books and furnishings
- Periodic restoration of murals and decorative elements
- Structural assessments to ensure the building’s integrity
- Implementation of security measures to protect valuable collections
How Does the Rose Room Compare to Other Famous Libraries?
The Rose Room stands out among the world’s great libraries:
| Feature | Rose Room | Other Famous Libraries |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 297 feet long | Varies, often smaller |
| Ceiling Height | 52 feet | Typically lower |
| Capacity | 500 seats | Often less |
| Public Access | Open to all | Some require memberships |
| Collection Focus | General reference | Often specialized |
What Future Plans Exist for the Bryant Park Library Rose Room?
The New York Public Library continues to evolve its plans for the Rose Room:
- Ongoing digitization efforts to increase access to rare materials
- Potential expansion of digital resources and technology integration
- Consideration of extended hours to accommodate more visitors
- Exploration of new preservation techniques for aging architecture and collections
- Development of educational programs to utilize the space for public learning
The Bryant Park Library Rose Room remains a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and the importance of public spaces dedicated to learning and reflection. As it continues to serve New Yorkers and visitors from around the world, the Rose Room stands as a beacon of intellectual pursuit and architectural splendor in the heart of Manhattan.
References:
1. New York Public Library – Rose Main Reading Room
2. Architectural Digest – New York Public Library’s Rose Main Reading Room
3. The New York Times – A Gilded Bookworm’s Lair Reopens