The Morgan Library & Museum - New York

Bradley C.

It’s a stunning library and museum. It’s so classic. It’s well built and maintained. Great to have this museum open to the public in the city. They also have performances in the lobby. The day I visited, there was a small group of musicians playing classical music. It was simply beautiful. I’d like to come back some time. It’s a great place to spend a weekday afternoon in.

aracruz1988

What a marvelous cultural institution! The library is gorgeous and lavishly decorated. Walking into it you are transported into another world, and it truly makes you want to pick up a book and read. The collection of rare books is very impressive and fascinating. Some of the items displayed are very historically significant and at times even moving. The Gutenberg Bible as well as non-Western manuscripts were particularly interesting. I would highly recommend a visit to this magical place.

Bill C.

The Morgan Library and Museum is a fascinating glimpse into the gilded age. The collection of books and incunabula is remarkable and displayed expertly. With the knowledge the collection is open to researchers adds to the interest in this library. The exhibits in the rotating spaces add to the permanent exhibits. For those looking for some food, the restaurant is located in the center of the space. Bathrooms in the basement.

Eva S.

We were able to visit the library for free since the museum is running specials during their anniversary year. The architecture is incredible and the library and exhibition are absolute gems. The museum shop also offers a great variety of gift ideas for the book lovers in your life. Make time for this beautiful place in your NYC schedule!

JungJung C.

It’s a great opportunity to explore J.P. Morgan’s personal library. The environment is comfortable, and the detailed guided tour provides insights into his life, philosophy, collections, and perspectives. I truly enjoy learning about a person this way—there’s so much to absorb and reflect on.

Shelly C.

It was so much fun to revisit this gem in 1he heart of Midtown Manhattan with a friend who had never been! His amazing collection of so many priceless books, including 3 Guttenberg Bibles and Caxtons, is awe-inspiring! I would die to have 3 stories of rare books in such a beautiful setting!

It was also fun to recognize some of the scenes from the HBO series The Guilded Age, which was filmed in parts. I also read The Personal Librarian about Belle de Costa Greene and her life as Morgan's librarian back in the early 20th century. Both had me looking at this museum with new eyes.

I recommend getting tickets for early in the day as it really fills up as time goes on. Don't forget to go to the wonderful bookstore before leaving!

Natalie D.

A short walk from Grand Central is this wonderful museum. It blends the gilded age Morgan Library with changing museum exhibits which are of a really high quality.
Currently, the exhibits are on Kafka and Belle da Costa Greene who was the first librarian at the site and offers a really interesting look at her experiences as an African American woman during this time. What makes the exhibits so interesting is the care taken- for instance in the Kafka exhibition, there are a series of postcards from his travels and they're displayed with both sides and interesting commentary which brings his world to life.
The library itself is a series of rooms from the main library to the office and even a heavily secured smaller room for the expensive books! The main room really is stunning, a wealth of knowledge with key volumes pulled out on the lower level to highlight some of the collection.
There's a restaurant here as well as the gift shop too- I'd really recommend the gift shop, it is a bit more expensive but the range and quality of goods is brilliant!
If you're able to, they offer free entry on a Friday night (has to be prebooked) which is well worth going to!

Daniel

The Morgan Library & Museum is a hidden gem in New York City that offers a rich cultural and historical experience. The stunning architecture, combined with the incredible collection of rare books, manuscripts, and art, makes this a must-visit for anyone interested in history or literature. The library itself is breathtaking, with its ornate design and atmosphere that transports you to another era. It’s a quieter, more reflective place compared to other NYC attractions, providing a peaceful escape in the middle of the city. Highly recommended for a unique and enriching experience!