Founded in 1896 with the consolidation of three libraries into the Long Island City Public library system, Queens Public Library serves an area that has grown from a group of small villages to the most ethnically and culturally diverse place in the world. In 1977, it became the first public library in the nation to provide comprehensive programs and services for new Americans, and now has a vast digital and written collection that includes sources of information in over 200 languages.
QPL presents thousands of free classes and workshops each year at 66 locations across 178 square miles that meet the ambitions of people of all ages, whether they want to master English, build their career, get homework help, or learn how to use technology.
In 2023, Queens Public Library:
CIRCULATED
7,700,000+
books, periodicals, and digital materials
WELCOMED
5,600,000+
visitors through its doors
SERVED
710,000+
active cardholders
PROVIDED
700,000+
computer sessions and over 500,000 wireless Internet connections
OFFERED
50,000+
classes, workshops, cultural events and activities
EMPLOYED
1,400+
full-time and part-time staff