Brooklyn Public Library is not part of the New York Public Library System. Little did I know that you don't have to be a Brooklyn Resident to join. There's a lot of great online content and applications available to you if you're a member. Some are applications that would cost you if you download them from the App Store. I'm not sure where my review is but I know I did one. I'm going to look for my photos. I've been to some great exhibitions that I'll share photos after I find them! I've got friends that live in Brooklyn and we meet at the library. I have to admit that if I didn't love Manhattan, Brooklyn would be my second choice! Check out the library website for branches near you. read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Very cool library card!! Posted with review 09/02/25 - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

The Brooklyn Public Library was founded in 1892 by an act of the New York State Legislature, with its first official branch, Bedford Library, opening in 1896. The library system grew significantly with the help of Andrew Carnegie's $1.6 million donation, funding 21 new branches in the early 20th century. What a beautiful library! I love the art incorporated into the building. The Brooklyn Library is vast and has multiple outlets. On this particular day, the library was honoring James Balwin. James Baldwin, an African-American writer and civil rights activist, garnered acclaim for his essays, novels, plays, and poems. It was such a great exhibit, and I was in awe of how big the library was. This is a library with so much history, and it is a must-visit if you are in the area. read more

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I have well deserved adoration for Grand Army Plaza Brooklyn Public Library. It provides so many vital benefits and opportunities to the community. I remember surfing the web here in the early days of the Internet while in middle school and renting DVDs and VHS tapes. Did I just date myself?! Yep. Sure did. I'm old. Fast forward to today and Brooklyn Public library is still a gem. It's a beautiful building with so much to offer on the inside. More recently I took my kid there to explore the children's section and take out some kiddie books. The children section is definitely popular and draws a crowd. The book selection is solid and your tiny person can play for a bit. There was a random guy kind of lurking around so as with any public place, you need to be vigilant. Security is present as well. The staff is extremely friendly and all are welcomed to enjoy the space, learn, read, grow, etc. read more

If you follow me on Yelp, you already know I'm into books, libraries, and reading... I'm an avid fan and supporter of the Brooklyn Public Library, however today the "The Book of HOV: A celebration of the life and work of Shawn "JAY-Z" Carter" was a free and phenomenal. It is an immersive walk in time into the life and contribution of Shawn "Jay-Z " Carter to the world of music. The exhibition, spreads throughout two floors of main Brooklyn Central Library is a walk back into time to picture collages, videos, concert passes, concert tickets, lots of swag, Grammys, album covers, Emmys, magazine covers, and more pics of this Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee contributions to fashion, music production, rap music, the boro of Brooklyn, philanthropy, and the ultimately the culture. Not bad for a boy born and raised in the Marcy Housing Projects in Brooklyn, not bad at all. I grew up to this music and Jay-Z's artistic contribution to my generations culture, so I am fan of rap music. I've watched rap music evolve from controversial underground music from the Bronx to an competitive category at the renown Grammys. Please go take take advantage of this exhibition. The exhibit is free and open to public up until October. You don't need a library card to visit the main branch in Brooklyn. Music lovers will enjoy the opportunity to watch hip hop as it celebrates continuity and growth into 50 years in the music industry. It's a vibe! Bravo! Brooklyn is in the house! read more

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I Went to NYC for a day trip & got a chance to check out The Book of Hov exhibit created by Roc Nation to celebrate the life and work of Shawn "JAY-Z" Carter. It was truly Amazing ! The exhibition, spread throughout two floors of Central Library you will find equipment he actually used, never-before-seen images, art and ephemera from the artist's archives, providing an unparalleled look at an extraordinary life and career and each room has a story that you can scan the QR code for and listen to audible story as you walk through . They even have a youth wing for the kids. They also created a set of limited-edition library cards to accompany the exhibit If you're a resident. These small snippets do this exhibit no justice if you have a chance you should def check it out, This free, immersive experience is available until October. I'm glad he's getting his flowers while he's still here ! read more

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Took a quick day trip to Brooklyn to visit the "The Book of Hov" detailing the life and musical journey of Shawn Carter ~ Jay Z. My husband and I have always been a huge fan so this visit definitely exceeded our expectations. The street vendors and the outside set up was everything. It was crowded but, very enjoyable, educational and very much interesting. The exhibits were phenomenal with great attention to detail. It was absolutely free to enter and explore. I definitely enjoyed myself and would love to return. read more

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We went for opening week so we had a long wait time from waiting to get into the library to walking through the exhibit. This was a great exhibit showing the journey of Jay-Z and his career. There was even an exhibit of the studio equipment him and his peers/team used back in the day. It was so cool and I appreciated it as a fan. The event is free and available over the next few weeks! read more

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Three words: Book Of Hov Three more: You must visit If you know me then you know I am a self proclaimed peachy apple. Born in Brooklyn. Saturated in Atlanta. So going home is always a good idea. Before Jay-Z decided to impact the city with imbue one of a kind unique exhibition, this library was already a destination location in Brooklyn. Whether you choose to eat outside on the steps and take in the city or need a quite place to work - this location has it all. There is a reference desk that will help you with your resume. Food trucks outside. A coffee and snack shop inside. Come. Stay a while. And if you go before October - spend some time with Brooklyn's Favorite Son and celebrate 50 years of Hip Hop. How bout there is a charming working phone booth. read more

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Amazing tribute to Jay-Z with The Book of Hov exhibit. The video marque on the outside steps greeted us before becoming memorized by his song lyrics printed in large text on the exterior of the building. There is a system once inside, guided by Acts, which is roped off to ensure you embark the journey into his life accomplishments. From artwork, to memorabilia, to still photos, to artifacts, to records you could actually play on a record player, to videos told a story, or even the audio listening portions, all of which gave very insightful history to Jay-Z. We flew all the way from San Francisco to experience this once in a lifetime moment. Locals were given an opportunity to collect keepsake library cards that varied artwork depenant upon the library branch near their home. That was a super cool concept. Hopefully this will lead to more exhibitions as a way to draw in more library card signups all while supporting entertainers and professionals in the creative or community spectrums. read more

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If you need another reason to visit the Brooklyn Library the Jay-Z exhibit 2023 is a good place to start. No library card needed! The outside of the library is designed with lyrics like a page of a book " The Book of Hov " The exhibit gives more then a glimpse into the life and times of Shawn Carter, from a recording studio to the actual NYCHA Marcy sign to the autographed footballs from his super bowl performance , this is an amazing showcase of the hip hop legends accomplishments. It's visual art and audio , put the headphones on and take a listen. Remember Roc a Wear jeans ? They have a pair of those too ! I came, I saw , I conquered (Jay -Z). Encore and you should too ! I highly recommend seeing this exhibit, explore the Brooklyn Library and the Brooklyn , the birth place of Jay-Z. read more

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I'm a Brooklyn baby and a Jay-Z fan. So thank you sweet baby Jesus that I was able to go during the opening week and be in town for it. Brooklyn Public Library is beautiful. A landmark. A staple. It is Brooklyn. You're going to be able to study, borrow books and be in greatness. So then to add the Book of Hov takes it to the next level. The exhibition will be avail until October 2023 and you will NOT be disappointed. Such a magical combo. Plus it's free. read more

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Went on a quick trip to NY to see the Jay-Z Book of Hov exhibit. It was a short exhibit, but def interesting. I enjoyed the experience and the history. I think it closes on Dec 4th (his bday), so book that flight before it's too late. Also, there's a Spike Lee exhibit down the street at the Brooklyn Museum (which I'll share as well). read more

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Hov installed a free exhibit for the community in the public library. It's a beautiful library and an immersive installation. The front of the library is wrapped with his lyrics. There are several rooms with photos, awards, a dark room illuminated by music videos, and some sculptures. My favorite was Baseline studio where they had his albums on display, and some of the equipment he used. Create art on your own damn terms!! read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Came here a few times before for information on running for public office to now viewing the Jay-Z exhibit. It was a pretty cool event. It got crowded when it was first open to the public, but I was able to walk right in and take in the exhibit. I know it is a library, but I wish they played some of his music in some of the closed off rooms that we had to enter. It would have set the mood right. read more

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Visiting the Book of HOV, a tribute installation to Jay-Z at the Brooklyn Public Library. Beautiful masterpiece and well done exhibition. Love the immersive experience with never seen before image. Worth the visit.. read more

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The library is such a treasure! From the literal mountains of knowledge that can be attained here to the helpful and friendly staff. I wanted to give a special shout out to Ash at the information desk for helping me figure out why I couldn't access my Libby account even though my physical library card wasn't expired. Turns out my virtual library card was expired and once I switched it to my physical library card I was all set. Ash was super patient and friendly and I really appreciated their help! Thanks Central Library, love another satisfied patron. Also, seems like the HOV exhibit has come to a close, I hope all enjoyed it! read more

I came here to see the JayZ exhibit, and let me tell you, it's a must see!. There's a line but it goes fast. The library located in BK. Friendly staff all over to help you. Lots of computers to use. Lots of private rooms too. There two levels to see Jay Z exhibit. It will be here til October. read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Yall can't miss this - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Very rude staff who spoke to my very queit daughter very rude more than one time. When I brought it to her attention the second time she was very respectful and very ghetto. Not someone to be working in a library for children. Bad experience read more

Being a Brooklynite, I really enjoyed this experience. They did it up for the Jay-Z exhibit! It took you throughout his career and you got the chance to view the entire library, they even had new library cards with his album covers. read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Jay-Z Exhibit - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

This was an immersive experience, expertly curated and fun and it didn't hurt that it was free! I enjoyed my visit and will be back when the crowds wind down(if they ever do) read more

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Never been to a library so amazing! All the memorabilia, while listening to his music. Epic! Thank you Jay-Z....Brooklyn!! read more

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Came here from out of state hours before my flight. Took two trains to get there planning to arrive when it opened but things happened so I only had about half an hour in this place which definitely wasn't enough. The WOW factor was seen as I walked up with the writing on the outside. As soon as I walked in, I saw people with a pamphlet. There is someone that gives you one as you enter so pick one up. Plenty of pics and QR codes for audio. I started on the first floor seeing display cases and several guards standing around. There were video presentations and recordings to catch. I'll have to come back for the recording part alone. I moved through quick but it w lot of knowledge with how talented Jay Z is. This exhibit is overwhelming and I'm surprised and blessed to be able to enjoy it for free. Thank you to this library for allowing the public into your walls. I hope I'm able to return before the end date. Do yourself a favor and check it out . read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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Visited the Brooklyn Public Library today! I was excited to view the Book of Hov! Top notch curation! It is two floors. I would recommend that everyone partakes before it ends. A journey from the beginning of Hov's career to the present. read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I remember the first book that I borrowed on my first solo trip to the library. Probably at age twelve with really no concern about navigating the subway alone to get here. I also remember the leaves fallen to the ground as I walked along Eastern Parkway. Even a kid has got to be impressed by approaching the massive Art Deco facade designed to be reminiscent of an open book. From Wikipedia: "The Central Library is the main branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, located at Flatbush Avenue and Eastern Parkway on Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, New York City. It contains over a million cataloged books, magazines, and multimedia materials. Each year, over one million people visit the library. The Central Library's local history division, The Brooklyn Collection, holds over a million individual items including photographs, maps, manuscripts, Brooklyn Dodgers memorabilia and other ephemeral items. Completed by late 1940, the Central Library opened to the public on February 1, 1941. It was publicly and critically acclaimed at the time. The Central Library was listed on the National Register of Historic Places." Now, locally, libraries are closing, hopefully temporarily, due to safety for library users and staff. Currently, appointments can be made only to pick up requested books. Sadly, I read reviews for the Brooklyn Central Library and that they too are facing similar security problems. The beautiful New York City Landmark is In a changing millennium. http://www.bklynlibrary.org/sites A Look Inside Central Library read more

Brooklyn Public Library - From Wikipedia. - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Came by to see the Jay Z exhibit and was amazed at the outside architecture of the building. In front there is a cube displaying electronic images of Jay Z's life. Head inside to view artifacts & his musical journey. They have photos, album covers, some of his personal items, & his a small option of his original recording "studio." The whole exhibit you can see in 15-20 min if you don't read every tiny detail. Otherwise it's a general public library with computer lab. Restrooms could use an upgrade. Venture out and you're close to a park and busy intersection. read more

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Cool huge big library. I came with another person and needed to speak for work reasons and one of the employees accommodated by giving us a room even though it wasn't prior reserved. We spent about 40 minutes and left. The renovation is going nicely read more

Came here for The Book of Hov exhibit. Mind blown. Perfectly set up. Staff was everywhere. read more

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I just completed a very important virtual interview for employment at a meeting room on the ground floor of this library. The reservation system the day before was good, and a confirmation number was given. This morning checking in was fine at the information desk, and I was informed that usually 5 minutes before the room reservation begins, the staff will give notice to whom ever is occupying the room. With my bad luck today, there was an person already in the room who did not appear to be using it in the best manner intended for, meaning she had approximately 7-8 grocery bags with food inside, and she may have been on her smart phone and wearing a hoody and did not seem that interested in leaving the room on time, after she was given notice by the staff. After my reservation time started, I politely requested that the patron vacate the room as I have a reservation for an important purpose, to which this patron started to attempt to argue with me, then I calmy asked for their understanding of the situation and the rules. So I continued to wait, as I have this one important interview for employment purposes to complete in a time sensitive manner, and still more minutes go by and the patron is taking her sweet time methodically and painfully slowly packing up her property, and there is no concern for the situation by the staff. Finally, 8 minutes past my start time I am allowed to enter the room, only after having to hear unnecessary comments in a somewhat frustrated tone by the initial occupant of the room, which I was not deserving of based on my professional and polite behavior. So with the expectation that I would have a proper 30 minutes to complete the virtual interview, I was somewhat rushed to complete it in 22 minutes, which calculates to 27% less schedualed opportunity to perform, and that much more frustration and stress, which was not justified for a patron who did not appear to be using their time and the room for the best purposes of New York City, and the greater good internationally. My impression from this experience is that I was not fully recognized as a priority, and my time did not appear to be highly valued. So this morning the library underperformed compared to the best experience possible. Other experiences in the Business Section of the library have been excellent, and I completed at least one recent virtual interview for a major US Commercial Airline. I suspect there will be more problems with library patrons here being given the best chances of success, since that is the environment that they allow to exist. This was my experience today, as an Indian-American, born US Citizen, who recently returned back to USA after living abroad for more than one year in India. read more

We drove here all the way from DC to visit the Book of Hov exhibit. I'm not a Jay Z fan, my fiance is but I thought the exhibit was BEAUTIFULLY done. I really enjoyed everything I saw and learned a lot more about Jay Z. Well done Central Library! read more

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Great place to find some down time or enjoy family time in the children's room. Love the BOOK OF HOV tribute. read more

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It was awesome! What an amazing exhibit. So much Daisy memorabilia was on display and it made me feel extremely nostalgic as a Jay-Z fan. I was taking back to a time where the music I loved as a child was just such a huge aspect of my life if you have the time, you should definitely stop by. The crowd was enormous. Everyone was inspired by what was on display the exhibit is extremely immersive and interactive, extremely enjoyable. read more

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This library looks massive from the outside--but it didn't feel too big when I walked in. I would say they could've utilized the space a bit better. Not too many places to work from, but the A/C was good and the internet was stable and fast read more

Arrived here last Saturday and spent a few hours reorganizing my thoughts and ideas in my planner. Although the library is spacious, it's hard to find a good spot to settle in and concentrate. Mainly because areas are already preoccupied by other people and they're chatty. It's also difficult to find a place to charge your device next to you. You have to take your device to a charging station and periodically get up to check your messages. read more

I was told by the librarian on 43 st boro park library to go here for technical help for job search. I was told to go to the business and career center on the second floor. Vicki at the desk helped me find my indeed code it went to unread messages but then she wanted me to take a laptop and I don't like laptops I have my own but don't use. I like computers. Then I had issues I couldn't put my employer into the space provided it wouldn't let me and I asked Vicki for help she said my past employer doesn't exist. I showed her him on Google and she just left to talk to her friend and forgot about me. She was talking to her friend most of the time instead of helping me which is what she is paid to do. This is a horrible work ethic. I help people more then they even ask of me and I'm not being paid so I expect a lot more from a professional in a business and career center at the main biggest library. Plz have a talk with her . She needs reprimanding not to talk with friends during working hrs. read more

BOTTOM LINE: By FAR my fave library in NEW YORK, yeah, I SAID it! TIP/S: Check their website often. Their calendar is chock full of activities for singles, families, children, young adults, and seniors alike! ...WHO: party of 1 WHY: various fantastic events, just depends on the day WHAT: (Deets) I attended a Vinyasa yoga (instructed by Joelle Hann) & Poetry (read, and mostly, written by Mia Kang) event. BYOM. It was a great calming and intentional way to spend the morning of Mother's Day. I loved having such tranquil stretching and deep breathing time in a place where there can be a calm and consistent bustling/buzzing of people and things. Joelle led, and verbally adjusted us into and out of positions, she paused between several positions, allowed us to hold the poses and listen as Mia read to us. It was a unique and lovely experience that I plan to repeat. The next event is June 10 for anyone who wants to attend. Sign up through BPL.org. WHEN: Sunday May 13th 9-10:30am (library opens to the general public on Sundays at 1p) WHERE: the main check out/passage area on the ground level HOW: car/ bike/bus: B44, trains: 2/3 to Brooklyn Museum or Grand Army Plaza BATHROOM: roomy (2 stall, separate gender) WIFI: yes, free DRESS CODE: as you like SERVICE: cordial, and typically prompt read more

Excellent place to study for the NY Bar Exam... or any exam for that matter. This library is spacious, clean, has study rooms (with great lighting) which you can reserve both in-person and online, and even has a recording studio (like what?!?). I will definitely be frequenting this library more often. read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

It can get loud here so I do prefer the private rooms which you need to book in advance, and have a library card. However all the rooms are equipped for Private study, meeting and presentations. They are clean and bright. The cafe isn't open too late and have some variety. Overall I like late nights or early mornings due to the slow traffic read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Private study, meeting and presentation rooms available when you have a library card. You must book this in advance! - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Conveniently located near the Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, the Brooklyn Public Library - Central Library location is easily accessible in a warm/inviting environment. Sometimes, I have had a tendency to get the urge to just walk in to see what activites/workshops are being held. I have come here very often especially when I take a day off from work. It is so nice to walk through the back entrance, see the cute kids reading/ engaged in the Children's Section and then proceed to the beautiful lobby. This library has various sections, areas etc filled great literary/educational entertainment. This spacious library has lots of fascinating books to choose from...I have checked out many materials with my library card. Favorites of mine include mystery books by specific authors or anything that has an cool plot. Majority of the books that I have read and throughly enjoyed have been from the Central Library. There has been a need for me to come here to use their free scanning machine on multiple occasions to send copies of documentation to my email address. The equipment and resources at this library has always been sufficient to me Staff persons are extremely helpful because they have helped me to locate notaries as well as have provided instructions on computer, kiosk and research related tasks. Libraries are special and this one is no exception! read more

Its a great place to study, they have really good hours where they're open 7 days a week and during week days they close at 9pm. They're not too crazy about having water/ drinks with you. There's a convenient place to grab something to eat. The food in the cafe is affordably priced and the sandwich and coffee is actually quite good. I had a ice coffee with and sausage egg and cheese sandwich (5.75). It had a brioche bun with plenty of cheese. There's a kitchen there so the food was actually cooked onsite. I usually study on the third floor in the music and arts section, where its a quiet area. Make sure you get here early if you're planning on digging in. By late morning/ afternoon, it gets a little crowded and the choice seating are usually gone. I usually study with a classmate so that i can easily step away someone can watch my stuff. It is a public library and as such it is open to the public. You will meet randos but there's a pretty big security presence in the lower floors as theres a NYCID and passport center. The bathrooms are not air conditioned and relatively small. Given the foot traffic and high usage, it gets pretty gross. The sitting areas are clean and with the good AC i haven't had issues with smells etc. Compared to the Business library in Midtown, there are way more sleeping homeless and their mediocre AC definitely doesn't help. I would say this is in between that and the NYPL in Bryant park, where the tourists are crowding, the AC is blasting and the security is tight. With the better hours and location by prospect park this is a solid option. read more

Before I had my daughter I rarely came to the library now I tried to come twice a week. They have stories time for babies up to toddlers also in Spanish. The have a children area.. it's pretty cool but I do wish it was more clean. I'm pretty sure the rugs in need of some deep cleaning and the toys ..sometimes after my daughter finish play I want to put bleach all over her but i do appreciate it.. she gets to play with other kids read more

Brooklyn Public Library - Play time with my Daughter - Libraries Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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