Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog number |
P012 |
Artist |
Anderson, Carlos |
Title |
Outdoor Library |
Date |
Mid-1930's |
Object Name |
Lithograph |
Description |
Lithograph by Carlos Anderson (1904-1978). The print depicts people choosing books and reading outdoors. The original Reading Room began in August of 1935 as a public response to the Depression Era job losses in New York. Many people did not have anywhere to go during the day, and no prospects for jobs. The New York Public Library opened the "Open Air Library" to give these out-of-work businessmen and intellectuals a place to go where they did not need money, a valid address, a library card, or any identification to enjoy the reading materials. The 1935 Reading Room consisted of several benches, a few book and magazine cases, and a table with a beach umbrella for the five librarians who ran it. It operated every day except Sunday from mid-morning until mid-evening. Most of the books were from the New York Public Library’s circulation, but all magazines and trade publications were donated by publishers or individuals. When it rained the books and periodicals were quickly put in a large water-proof chest and readers and librarians took cover. No cards were required – patrons were simply asked to sign in and out. The Reading Room was closed in 1944 due to an increase in jobs and World War II. - Reading Room, Bryantpark.org, 2011 |
Medium/Material |
Ink on paper |
Dimensions |
H-10 W-12.75 inches |
Year Range from |
1935 |
Year Range to |
1941 |
Exhibition and Publication History |
* "Working Through the Great Depression," February 9 - June, 2009, Godwin-Ternbach Museum, CUNY, A. Winter and M. Simon, Curators. |
Culture |
American |