In Harlem, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture combines a New York Public Library research division with exhibition and event spaces devoted to Black, African and African-diaspora experiences. Founded in 1925 around Arturo Alfonso Schomburg’s collections, it preserves books, photographs, archives, recordings and other materials, with selected items shown in exhibitions. You can explore the displays, browse the center’s books and attend talks or other events. Its collections are much larger than what can be viewed during one visit, so check the center’s website before you go.
A Harlem library devoted to Black history
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is part of the New York Public Library and is located at 515 Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem. Founded in 1925, it began with collections assembled by Arturo Alfonso Schomburg. The center was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2017.
Its work brings together research, preservation, exhibitions and public programming focused on Black, African and African-diaspora experiences. The collections include books, documents, photographs, recordings, artworks and other materials. The center holds more than 10 million items, so an exhibition can show only a selection of what is preserved there.
Exhibitions and collections
Exhibitions draw on the center’s collections to explore history, culture and the arts. The material on view can include records and artifacts as well as artworks and books. Past displays have covered figures in arts and entertainment, and the center also holds events that connect visitors with its collections and subjects.
The Photographs and Prints Division contains more than 300,000 images documenting African history and culture from the 18th century onward. The Rare Books Division holds manuscripts and archives for research. These resources are not all displayed in the galleries, so visitors with a specific research question should contact the center in advance. A New York Public Library card may be required for research access.
Planning a visit
Check the Schomburg Center’s website for current exhibition details, talks and other events before travelling to Harlem. The center also has an app that lets you explore more of its collection virtually. If you want help with a subject or a particular part of the collection, ask staff or make an inquiry ahead of time.
The center’s role as both a library and an exhibition space means a visit can take different forms: you might focus on what is currently on display, attend a program or arrange to use research materials. There is also a shop with books and other items. The center’s online resources provide another way to explore its holdings beyond the material shown in person.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Schomburg Center?
It is at 515 Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem, New York City.
Is the Schomburg Center part of the New York Public Library?
Yes. It is a research division of the New York Public Library.
Can I see the full collection during a visit?
No. The center holds more than 10 million items, and exhibitions display selected material. Its app and online resources provide other ways to explore the collection.
Do I need a library card to visit?
A card may be needed to use research resources. Contact the center in advance if you need help with a particular collection or research question.
