Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library
🏢 Public Library — New York, New York
Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library
Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library is a free branch of the New York Public Library serving New York City with books, digital lending, Wi-Fi, computers, and community programs.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Tuesday | 12 PM – 7 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Thursday | 12 PM – 7 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 40 West 20th Street, New York, NY 10011
Phone: 212-206-5400
Website: nypl.org/locations/heiskell
📖 About Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library
Roots trace to the New York Free Circulating Library for the Blind, founded 1895 and incorporated into NYPL in 1903. The current Chelsea building opened December 12, 1991, named for Andrew Heiskell, former Time Inc. chairman/CEO and NYPL Board of Trustees chairman (1981-1990). Free accessible reading in braille, talking books, and magazines for patrons who are blind, visually impaired, or physically unable to read standard print (serves NYC and Long Island residents). Assistive-technology coaching, braille study groups, the Dimensions Lab for tactile creation, a recording studio, PAWS catalog, and BARD downloads. Fully accessible.
📱 Digital Resources — Free with Your Library Card
📚 Services
- 📘 Books, DVDs & audiobooks
- 💻 Free computers & printing
- 📶 Free Wi-Fi
- 📚 Interlibrary loan (NYPL & MyLibraryNYC)
- 📋 Study & reading rooms
🎸 Programs
- 👶 Children’s storytimes
- 🎁 Summer Reading
- 📚 Adult & ESOL classes
- 👨💻 Teen & tech workshops
- 🚀 Career & job help
📍 More New York Public Libraries
❓ FAQ
What are Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library’s hours?
Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library is open Mon 10 AM – 5 PM, Tue 12 PM – 7 PM, Wed 10 AM – 5 PM, Thu 12 PM – 7 PM, Fri–Sat 10 AM – 5 PM, Sun closed. Hours may vary on holidays, so confirm on the official NYPL website before visiting.
Where is Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library located?
Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library is at 40 West 20th Street, New York, NY 10011 in New York City. It is part of the free New York Public Library (NYPL) system.
Is it free and how do I get a library card?
Yes — all NYPL services are free. Any New York State resident, worker, or student can get a free NYPL card online or in person with a photo ID; it unlocks borrowing, computers, Wi-Fi, and digital resources like Libby and Kanopy.