7. The Book of HOV at The Brooklyn Public Library

Book of Hov Jay-Z exhibit at BPL
Photo by Gregg Richards, Courtesy of the Brooklyn Public Library

You can’t miss the grand, open-paged book that sits on the exterior of The Central Branch of The Brooklyn Public Library, with song lyrics from a New York rapper you’re sure to know. For all the music lovers, but especially all the Jay-Z lovers, The Book of HOV exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum is a once-in-a-lifetime visiting opportunity. Curated and produced by Jay-Z’s own Roc Nation, this first-ever in-house, tribute exhibit features over 300 donated books from Jay-Z’s personal collection, never-seen-before photos and murals, as well as a full-sized replica of the recording studio where the rapper produced some of his greatest hits. 

The Central Branch has even created 13 limited edition library cards, each with art from one of Jay Z’s iconic albums that you can collect and use! The exhibit is presented in chapters, so viewers are free to walk through the library and explore on their own time. The experience doesn’t interfere with the regular functions of the library, so whether you’re passing through in search of a particular book, or going only for the exhibit, curiosity and musical inspiration will be your guide!