10. The Morgan Library and Museum (1902-1906)

Photo courtesy of The Morgan Library & Museum

The Morgan Library & Museum was built between 1902-1906, next to J.P. Morgan’s New York residence at Madison Avenue and 36th Street. The building was referred to as “Mr. Morgan’s Library” as it was primarily his private study up until 1924, when J.P. Morgan Jr. gave the magnificent library to the public. The library expanded with the addition of the Annex building that replaced J. Pierpont Morgan’s residence by means of a gallery, a garden. The most drastic change to the Morgan Library campus was an Italian-inspired piazza by architect Renzo Piano which was added in 2006. Piano’s design of the recent addition expanded exhibition space by over 50%, connecting the Morgan’s three buildings with steel and glass pavilions.

Current exhibitions at the Morgan include, “Tolkien: Maker of Middle-earth” and “The Extended Moment: Photographs from the National Gallery of Canada” up until mid-May. Entrance to explore into J.P. Morgan’s personal library and its intricate ceiling are ongoing. The museum is free on Friday nights, and includes a café, shop, and dining room.

Next, check out 10 Historic Branches of the New York Public Library and Their Unique Collections in NYC