Jefferson Market Library New York
A castle for books
Jefferson Market Library is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings of Greenwich Village. Originally a Victorian courthouse, the building now serves as a branch of the New York Public Library. With its beautiful turreted Gothic exterior and cavernous reading room, it reminds me of a castle in the middle of New York City!
A library membership is not required to visit, so feel free to walk right in and browse the books (a library card is required to borrow a book, however.) I like to visit in the afternoons, when the sun streams in through the tall Gothic windows. It is the perfect place to relax with a book! If I'm working on a writing project, I like to bring my laptop to the downstairs reading room, where there are plenty of outlets and long tables.
Just behind the library, you'll find another hidden gem: the Jefferson Market Garden. It is a tiny but beautiful oasis filled with flowers; roses, tulips, dahlias, and bluebells can all be found among the flowerbeds. Many people, even New Yorkers, pass every day without realizing that it is open to the public! This peaceful garden is open from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday. Be sure to check it out when our New York winter thaws!
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