As a private institution, NYU Libraries is unable to offer members of the public general access to the Libraries and collections. However, there are a number of ways visitors can access the Libraries based on affiliation and research need.

Access passes are issued at Library Privileges in the lobby of Bobst Library during hours of operation.

Researchers

Bobst Library’s Special Collections and U.S. & U.N. Collections are open to researchers upon explanation of research need and presentation of valid photo ID.

NYU Alumni

Upon presentation of a NYU Alumni card and a photo ID, an individual will be allowed access for one visit to Bobst Library. For extended access, alumni may join the Friends of Bobst Library program at a reduced rate.

Friends of Bobst Library

NYU alumni, neighborhood residents, and members of the public can gain access to Bobst Library by making a 100% tax-deductible gift to join Friends of Bobst Library.

METRO Referral Card

As a member of the Metropolitan New York Library Council METRO, NYU honors METRO card referrals. You may request a METRO card referral at one of 270 member libraries and library systems in New York City and Westchester County. A METRO referral card allows an individual a one-time-only visit to a library to use a specified item in the library.

NYU Departmental Sponsored Access

An NYU department may choose to sponsor a non NYU-affiliated individual for library access. Read more about sponsored access.

Guests of NYU Students and Faculty

NYU Libraries welcomes the guests of students and faculty. Guest policies and more information.

Students and Faculty from Other Institutions

NYU Libraries offers access to students and faculty from other institutions, read more about specific institution policies.