library perks

New York Library Freebies


The library system in NYC is amazing. There are so many freebies - both obvious ones and hidden ones - to take advantage of!

You can get a free library card to NYPL, BPL & QPL if you live, work, go to school, or pay property taxes in New York State.

  1. Free books: including digital books and audio books? You can use the Overdrive app through NYPL to rent both digital and audio books

  2. CulturePass: this is probably my favorite benefit, and I’ve posted about this a few times on this page. With a NYPL, Brooklyn Library, or Queens Public Library card, you can visit dozens of museums and attractions across NYC — for free! This includes New York Botanical Garden, Intrepid Museum, Museum of Modern Art & many more!

  3. Free Educational Courses: courses through Mango Languages and LinkedIn Learning: you can learn 70 different languages through a free Mango membership with your library card (mobile app too!), and level up professionally with free LinkedIn learning!

  4. Instrument Rentals: Brooklyn Public Library cardholders can borrow instruments for up to one month thanks to a partnership with the Brooklyn Conservatory! There are drums, guitars, keyboards and many more types of instruments to rent. You can also rent time in an amateur recording studio located in the Info Commons! Find more info here 🎸

  5. Book Free Studio Time: Brooklyn Central Library has free recording studios where you can record a demo, practice music and more. Book free studio time and learn more here

  6. In Person Programming: From book clubs to crafts to guest speakers to children’s and teens activities, each library has so much to do, all free!