The Astor Library was a prominent free public library in Manhattan's East Village, established through the efforts of (funded by) John Jacob Astor and Joseph Cogswell. It was designed by Alexander Saeltzer and opened in 1854 as a non-circulating research library.&nbsp;

W. B. Astor donated land for the expansion of the Library.&nbsp;

John Jacob Astor III donated three lots of ground adjoining the northern side of the library's lot for an addition on December 5, 1879.&nbsp;

In 1895, the Astor Library merged with the Lenox Library and the Tilden Foundation, forming the New York Public Library (NYPL). The library played a crucial role in the development of public access to knowledge in New York City.

The Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society acquired the building.&nbsp;

The building was threatened with demolition. The New York Shakespeare Festival convinced the city to save it for theater use.&nbsp;

Renowned architect Giorgio Cavaglieri led its conversion between 1967 and 1976. The building was designated a New York City Landmark in 1965.

A major $35 million renovation of one of the first non-profit theaters in the country, The Public Theater. The design preserved the historic structure, which had fallen into disrepair, an enlarged lobby, and modern patron amenities. A new glass and steel canopy and a lighted facade above.

Originally home to NYC’s first free library, this building is considered one of the best American examples of German Romanesque Revival, or Rundbogenstil. It currently houses the Public Theater, founded by Joseph Papp and known for launching the original production of Hair.

It was one of the first buildings to be recognized as such by the newly formed Landmarks Preservation Commission of New York City.

In the latter half of the 19th century

This Library Open Every Other Monday from 9:58 am - 10:00amCartoon by Chip from the January 7, 1892, issue of the first Life magazine satirizing the opening day of the Astor Library

Public Theater

Originally home to NYC’s first free library (funded by John Jacob Astor), this building is considered one of the best American examples of German Romanesque Revival, or Rundbogenstil. It currently houses the Public Theater, founded by Joseph Papp and known for launching the original production of Hair.

Public Theater

2012 - Renovation

2012 - Renovation - Images

1881 - Addition

1881 - Addition - Images

1881 - Addition - Drawings and documents

1859 - Addition

1859 - Addition - Images

1859 - Addition - Drawings and documents

1853 - Constructed

1853 - Constructed - Drawings and documents