See Rare 15th-Century Books & Stunning Architecture In This Free AMNH Hidden Gem

There is a unique kind of magic in NYC, often tucked away in plain sight. Case in point: the Gottesman Research Library . We all know the thrill of visiting the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) , wandering beneath the Blue Whale and through the great halls of dinosaurs. It’s a fundamental New York experience, but its library oftentimes goes unnoticed. Even in a landmark as famous as this **NYC museum**, there are beautiful, tranquil discoveries waiting for those who venture beyond the main exhibits. This is one of them. Inside the Gottesman Research Library’s architectural beauty & vast resources ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- The David S. and Ruth L. Gottesman Research Library and Learning Center just might just be the most stunning hidden gem for any curious mind in the city. It’s located within the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , the Museum’s breathtaking new expansion. The Gilder Center itself is known for its incredible, organic design, inspired by the natural forms that wind and water carve into landscapes, making the entire building an experience in itself. Though AMNH is prime stomping grounds for locals and visitors alike, it seems that museum-goers are only now finding out about the library — as evidenced by trendy TikTok videos, like this one from **@lavivienyc**. The Library carries this architectural marvel forward into a quiet, scholarly setting. Visitors enter a sleek reading room that is both a hub for browsing and a venue for public lectures and presentations. The space is notable for its expansive feel and the spectacular natural light pouring in through large windows, creating a calming atmosphere for research and contemplation. The Library’s true value, however, is in its unparalleled resources , supporting the Museum’s mission of scientific research and education. It is one of the largest natural history libraries in the world, founded in 1869 , and houses a unique collection of natural science books, journals, photographs, art, and an extensive archives. If you have ever wondered how the Museum’s exhibits are developed, the answer lies here: the collection includes primary resources like field notebooks and personal papers from scientists, documenting scientific expeditions across the globe. You can also take advantage of the virtual resources and digital collections available, which are constantly being enriched with digitized content, including photographs and rare book plates. For those who want a truly unique experience, the Library’s holdings include an almost 15,000-volume Rare Book Collection . While these rare materials—which include field diaries, richly illustrated, fragile, or uniquely bound materials, and works dating back to the 15th century —are typically accessed by appointment only, the Library provides a window into this world through a special space. There is a tiny, hidden alcove exhibit called the Alcove Gallery . This gallery showcases holdings from the rare book collection and other special collections. For instance, an inaugural exhibition explored the history of species classification and included rare books and illustrated works of entomology from the 17th and 18th centuries . Will you take a peek the next time you’re on the Upper West Side? 📍 200 Central Park West ⏰ Daily 10am-5:30pm Source: https://secretnyc.co/gottesman-research-library-amnh-hidden-gem/