Jefferson Market Library — Attraction in New York

The building got substantial use as a courthouse, as the Third Judicial District covered the Madison Square area, where the city's entertainment district – The Tenderloin – was located. So heavy was the traffic, that the country's first night court began there. Among the more noted people arraigned in the courthouse was Harry K. Thaw, the murderer of celebrity architect Stanford White. The building ceased to be used as a courthouse in 1945; its future was uncertain, and it was in danger of being torn down. A group of community preservationists led by Margot Gayle and Ruth Wittenberg formed the Committee of Neighbors to Get the Clock on Jefferson Market Courthouse Started and campaigned to have the building converted into a library. In 1961, the New York Public Library agreed to the plan and architect Giorgio Cavaglieri was brought in to restore the exterior and redesign the building's interior for its new use – one of the first adaptive reuse projects in the United States, and a signal event in the historic preservation movement. The restoration is estimated to have cost $1.4 million. The library opened in 1967, with the police court becoming the Children's Reading Room, the Civil Court the Adult Reading Room. Budget cutbacks in 1974 caused the Board of Trustees of the New York Public Library to vote to close the branch, as well as two others. After an outcry from residents, the decision was rescinded one month later. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977, both under the name "Third Judicial District Courthouse". The building received further restoration in 1994 by preservationist architect Joseph...

This a branch of the NYPL. The building used to be a customs house and now it's a public library. It has three floors and a basement. I was there it's very cool the a/c works great and the room in the second floor reminds me of the room at the main library on 42 and 5th Ave. They have a whole wall of DVD to rent and it's very quiet and clean. The tables to air on usually people using their laptops. The basement are the bathrooms and full of art and the desktops for customers to use. You can take the elevators to the three floors or there is stairs that look like you're inside a lighthouse. The children's section is on the first floor as soon as you walk in to the left. The elevator is straight ahead after walking up the steps and the revolving doors. To the right are the stairs are shaped like inside of a lighthouse. The entrance is on 6th Avenue next to a garden in the West Village. The best way to take the Subway to the West 4th Street station. Not too many books but it is a beautiful library inside and out. The building is of great architecture in red brick or stone and white stripes with a tower in the front. It feels cold and clammy everything is made of concrete hardwood and feels more like you're in another other than a library like a castle or vampire home from Transylvania If you're interested there a mini model of the building on a table in the front lobby which is so interesting and original. I recommend going here. The wifi and air conditioning is great if you're going now in the hot...

The Jefferson Market Branch of the New York Public Library is truly a hidden gem in the heart of the city. Once known as the Jefferson Market Courthouse, it has a rich history that is just waiting to be explored. As a National Historic Landmark, it is a site that simply must be visited by anyone interested in the city's past.

The building itself is a marvel of architecture, with its intricate details and stunning design. The atmosphere inside is both relaxing and inspiring, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a little while. The history contained within its walls is fascinating, with exhibits and displays that bring the past to life in a way that is both educational and engaging.

Visitors to the Jefferson Market Branch of the New York Public Library are sure to be impressed by the wealth of knowledge and information on offer. It is truly a testament to the importance of preserving our city's history and culture for future generations to enjoy.

The Jefferson Market Branch of the New York Public Library is a stunning example of both architectural and historical significance. Its beautiful design, relaxing atmosphere, and wealth of knowledge make it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich history...