Despite its name, it's not a library for New York society; rather, it was started by a group that called themselves the NY Society.
The reading and reference room is open to the public. Members have access to the stacks, reading rooms, study rooms, and a children's collection. Membership is $200 a year, $125 for teachers and college students.
Strengths of the collection are books about New York, English and American literature, history, and art history.
The New York Society Library is located at 53 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10021.
