Riverdale Library
🏢 New York Public Library — The Bronx, New York
Riverdale Library
Riverdale Library serves one of New York City's most distinctively suburban enclaves — a hilltop neighborhood of tree-lined streets, private schools, and Hudson River views that retains the character of the 19th-century estate district it once was. Built in 1967 at the direct request of Riverdale residents, the branch anchors community life in the Bronx's northwest corner and maintains a notable collection of Russian-language materials.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | 10am–6pm |
| Tuesday | 10am–6pm |
| Wednesday | 10am–6pm |
| Thursday | 10am–6pm |
| Friday | 10am–5pm |
| Saturday | 10am–5pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 5540 Mosholu Avenue, The Bronx, NY 10471
Phone: 7185491212
Website: nypl.org
📖 About Riverdale Library
<p>Riverdale Library was built in 1967 specifically at the request of community residents, replacing a smaller predecessor branch to meet the demands of this growing, affluent neighborhood at the northwestern edge of the Bronx. Riverdale is one of New York City's most sought-after residential areas — a largely low-rise, heavily wooded district developed in the 19th century as an estate enclave for Manhattan's wealthy, later home to prestigious private schools including Horace Mann, Riverdale Country School, and Fieldston. The library's collections span adult, young adult, and children's materials in multiple formats, with a particular emphasis on Russian-language books reflecting the neighborhood's Eastern European immigrant community. The branch is fully accessible and participates in NYPL's system-wide energy-efficiency improvements.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- Built 1967 at the request of Riverdale residents, replacing a smaller predecessor branch to serve the growing northwest Bronx community
- Russian-language book collection reflecting the neighborhood's Eastern European community — one of the branch's most distinctive holdings
- Serves one of NYC's most verdant neighborhoods: Riverdale's Fieldston sub-section was designed following Frederick Law Olmsted principles to preserve natural topography
- Adult programs include a stitchery circle, houseplant exchange, and mahjong sessions; children's programs feature STEAM activities and storytimes
- Fully accessible branch with energy-efficient infrastructure improvements as part of NYPL's broader sustainability initiatives
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does Riverdale Library have books in languages other than English?
Yes, the branch maintains a collection of materials in languages other than English, with a particular emphasis on Russian-language books. The collection reflects the neighborhood's Eastern European community. Check with the branch at 718-549-1212 for current holdings in specific languages.
What neighborhood does Riverdale Library serve, and what makes Riverdale distinctive?
The branch serves Riverdale, one of New York City's most affluent and architecturally distinctive neighborhoods in the northwestern Bronx. Originally developed as a 19th-century estate district, Riverdale retains a largely suburban character with tree-lined streets, low-rise homes, and significant green space. The Fieldston sub-neighborhood was laid out following Olmsted landscape principles to preserve the natural hillside topography rather than imposing a street grid. It is home to three prestigious private schools — Horace Mann, Riverdale Country School, and Fieldston.
Does Riverdale Library host adult programs and social activities?
Yes, the branch offers a range of adult programs including a stitchery circle, mahjong sessions, and a houseplant exchange, in addition to children's STEAM activities and family storytimes. Check the NYPL events calendar at nypl.org for current schedules.
✓ Hours & details last verified from official sources in October 2026.