10. New York Public Library Archive

Historic photo of the World's Fair
1939 World’s Fair. Photo from New York Public Library’s World’s Fair 1939 and 1940 Incorporated Records Archive.

If you’re looking for information about the 1939 World’s, the New York Public Library archive is your answer. The extensive collection contains over 12,000 pictures, original records, memorabilia and more. The library itself states, “There are few events or transactions related to the realization of the Fair and its day-to-day operation not documented in some fashion in these records.” The collection was donated to the library in 1940, at the close of the event, by the New York World’s Fair 1939 Incorporated, the non-profit corporation that organized the fair. You have to request access to the collection in advance.

Explore the remnants of both World’s Fairs on our upcoming walking tour! 

Remnants of the World’s Fairs Tour

Unisphere in Flushing Meadows

Next, read about the Top 10 Secrets of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.