How did Central Library go from “the most expensive pigeon roost in the world” to one of the most celebrated architectural feats? Listen to our audio tour to find out!
What is the Central Library Audio Tour?
Listen as librarian Norman Eriksen takes you on a tour of Central Library, starting on the Plaza, and ending on the Third Floor. Learn fascinating facts and remarkable stories as you walk around our historic building. Each stop is between five and eight minutes long, and you can go at your own pace.
How do I listen?
Click the players below to hear each of the six stops on the tour. Or, you can find QR codes on blue plaques throughout the building that will take you directly to each of the different stop. We recommend listening on a smartphone with a pair of headphones. If you don't have headphones, you can read a transcript of each section by clicking on the titles below.
Do I have to be at Central Library to take the tour?
We do recommend taking the tour when you're at Central Library, but it's not required. We've included pictures of the space—both historical and present-day—so you can listen to the tour from anywhere.
Season 1, Episode 1
Central Library Audio Tour: Plaza
This section of the tour includes the area outside Central Library, from the flagpole on Eastern Parkway to the Plaza and the front steps. Feel free to walk around as you listen.
Season 1, Episode 5
Central Library Audio Tour: Second Floor
This part of the tour includes the balcony, the Business & Career Center, Society, Sciences & Technology, and the History, Biography & Religion divisions, which are all located on the Second Floor. Feel free to walk around as you listen.
Season 1, Episode 4
Central Library Audio Tour: Eastern Parkway
This section includes the Youth Wing, which is located on the Eastern Parkway side of the library on the first floor. Feel free to walk around as you listen.
Season 1, Episode 2
Central Library Audio Tour: Grand Lobby
This section of the tour includes the Grand Lobby of Central Library. Feel free to walk around as you listen.
Season 1, Episode 6
Central Library Audio Tour: Third Floor
This part of the tour includes the Art & Music division, the Trustees Room, and the administrative areas, which are all located on the Third Floor. Feel free to walk around as you listen.
Season 1, Episode 3
Central Library Audio Tour: Flatbush
This section of the tour includes a portion of Central Library that runs along Flatbush Avenue. Feel free to walk around as you listen.