The Nolen Library
Nolen Library Hours and Access – Please leave all bags, briefcases and coats at the Museum Coat Check.
Monday (staff only) 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tuesday–Thursday 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Summer hours:
In July and August, Nolen Library closes at 5:00 p.m. every day and is closed on Sundays in August.
E-mail: nolen.library@metmuseum.org
The Nolen Library in the Ruth and Harold D. Uris Center for Education is open to all Museum visitors and welcomes readers of all ages to consult a wide range of noncirculating materials about the Museum’s current exhibitions, permanent collection, and art history in general.
The collection of some 8,000 items, arranged in open shelves, includes books, picture books, DVDs and videos (with viewing equipment). The library’s holdings are cataloged in WATSONLINE, the Museum libraries’ online catalog. The library is equipped with laptops for research, wireless access, color scanner, and access to the libraries’ subscription electronic resources. It is located on the Ground Floor near the Museum’s 81st St. entrance.
Children’s Reading Room
The Children’s Reading Room features a collection of books for young readers and computers that provide basic orientation to the Museum.
Materials for Teachers
The Nolen Library houses a variety of materials to assist teachers and other education specialists. These materials may be checked out to registered teachers and community group leaders upon registration. See Borrowing Policy for teacher material.
Teachers may arrange to bring groups to the library by appointment. Contact nolen.library@metmuseum.org to inquire about arranging a visit to the library.
Borrowing Policy for teacher materials:
Registered teachers and community educators may borrow up to three items for three weeks. Teachers may register in the Nolen Library with a valid ID showing school affiliation or with a letter on letterhead from a supervisor.
Reference Questions
Nolen Library staff with provide brief responses to questions about the Museum’s collection and events related to the Museum. Please email nolen.library@metmuseum.org.
Storytime in Nolen Library
Children aged three to seven are invited to Storytime in Nolen Library on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:30. Each session can be followed up with an optional treasure hunt in the galleries, to view objects related to the stories read.
