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Reading Room

Newspapers, magazines, books, and literary events

With a storied history in the park, the Reading Room provides the free use of books, newspapers, and magazines in the park during warm weather months. You'll also find a robust schedule of literary events, including Books on Broadway, Author, BookClub, Poetry, StoryTime, and much more!

Special thanks to
PenguinRandomHouseLibraryMarketingandMitchells

Author

May 28 - August 27 (no event July 2)
Wednesdays, 12:30pm-1:45pm

Admired and bestselling authors offer advice and discuss their latest books.

Hosted by Ilana Levine, actress and podcaster, Little Known Facts with Ilana Levine

Non-Fiction

July 9 - September 3
Wednesdays, 7pm-8pm

Lectures and conversations with historians, authors, and thinkers.

Produced in partnership with The New York Historical

Poetry

June 3 - September 16
Tuesdays, 6pm-7:30pm

Award-winning poetry by established and emerging poets.

Hosted by Jason Schneiderman, acclaimed poet

Reel Talks

June 9 – August 18
Mondays, 12:30pm–1:30pm

Talks on movies, the culture of cinema, and filmmaking.

Hosted by Scott Adlerberg, film connoisseur

Books on Broadway

May 20, 27, June 3, July 1
Select Tuesdays, 12:30pm–1:30pm

Backstage look at books starring on Broadway, featuring cast and crew who make it happen.

Hosted by Ilana Levine, actress and podcaster, Little Known Facts with Ilana Levine

BookClub

June 10, 24, July 8, 22, August 5, 19
Select Tuesdays, 12:30pm–1:30pm  

Romance, graphic novels, and classics—a little something for everyone.

Produced in partnership with Penguin Random House

*Sign-up at the Reading Room in advance and pick up a free book while supply lasts.

Writers Workshop

July 10 – August 14
Thursdays, 6:30pm–8pm

Workshops geared to improve your writing skills.

Produced in partnership with Gotham Writers

Writers Workshop Teens

September 20
Saturday, noon–1:30pm

Essay-writing tips for high schoolers and young adults

Produced in partnership with Writopia Lab

StoryTime

June 24 – August 26
Tuesdays, 10:30am–11:30am

Meowsic, stories, and fun with Cali Co Cat and friends. Ages 2 - 8.

Weekend Kids

July 12 – August 24
Saturdays and Sundays, 11am–12:30pm

Imaginations run wild during summer weekends in the Reading Room with music, dance, fitness, and more, followed by arts and crafts with Kelsey Craftz.

Beekeeping

April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18
Select Fridays, noon–1pm  

Learn about urban honeybees and the vital role they play in the environment.

Produced in partnership with New York City Beekeepers Association

Puzzle Meetups

June 14 – July 5
Saturdays, noon-3pm

Work with fellow jigsaw puzzle lovers on new pieces.

Hosted by Puzzle People of NYC

summer in the Bryant Park Reading Room
Special thanks to
PenguinRandomHouseLibraryMarketingandMitchells