![Peluso Gallery display case](/sites/default/files/2024-06/peluso_gallery.jpg)
The Library Moves Uptown: 70 Years at 79th Street (1937-2007)
December 15, 2007-November 1, 2008
Curated by Harriet Shapiro
In 1936, the Library, then located downtown on University Place, purchased 53 East 79th Street from Mrs. John Shillito Rogers. Most of the next year was devoted to a massive process of sorting, packing, cleaning, and renovation to get the building ready to move into and the books and holdings ready to move. Business began in the new building in July, but our new home was officially opened in December 1937.
This exhibition took viewers back to the early days in the Library's new home with a selection of classic books originally published in 1937, along with memorabilia about the move such as letters and newspaper clippings, and photographs and documents on the important political and cultural events of the year in New York City and beyond. Historic photographs show the building when it was a townhouse and flash back to its construction in 1917, ninety years ago.