New Haven Free Public Library: A Community Beacon
Discover a world of knowledge and history at New Haven's iconic Free Public Library, a landmark of learning and community engagement since 1887.
The New Haven Free Public Library, also known as the Ives Memorial Library, stands proudly on the New Haven Green. Designed by Cass Gilbert in neo-Georgian style and completed in 1911, it has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century, offering free access to information and knowledge.
A brief summary to New Haven Free Public Library
- 133 Elm St, New Haven, Downtown, Connecticut, 06510, US
- +1203-946-8130
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the library's website for a calendar of events, including workshops, exhibitions, and community programs.
- Explore the Local History Room to delve into the history and cultural diversity of New Haven.
- Take advantage of the library's free resources, such as computers, Wi-Fi, and online databases.
- Visit the Ives Gallery to view rotating art exhibits by local and regional artists.
- Consider using the New Haven Memory Lab to preserve your personal, family, and organizational archives.
Getting There
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Walking
The New Haven Free Public Library is located on the New Haven Green, making it easily accessible on foot from most downtown locations. From the center of the Green, walk towards the corner of Elm and Temple Streets. The library is situated on the northeast corner of the Green, across from the United Church on the Green.
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Public Transport
CT Transit provides bus service to the New Haven Green. Several bus routes stop near the library. Check the CT Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ride costs $1.75, or you can purchase a day pass for $3.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in New Haven. A short taxi ride from Union Station to the library will cost approximately $14. Metered street parking is available around the New Haven Green, with rates varying by location. Parking is enforced from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. Check street signs for specific time limits and regulations. You can also use the GoNewHaven or Parkmobile app to pay for metered parking. Several parking garages are also located within walking distance of the library.
Discover more about New Haven Free Public Library
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
New Haven City Hall
0.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of New Haven City Hall, a landmark that reflects the city's civic pride and heritage.
Orange Street Historic District
0.2 km
Experience the captivating blend of history and charm at the Orange Street Historic District in New Haven, Connecticut, a delightful destination for all travelers.
John Dixwell Grave and Monument
0.2 km
Explore the John Dixwell Grave and Monument, a serene historical landmark in New Haven, Connecticut, honoring a key figure of the English Civil War.
Connecticut State House Site - 1831-1874
0.2 km
Explore the grandeur of the Connecticut State House, a historical landmark in New Haven, showcasing rich political heritage and stunning architecture.
Battell Chapel
0.2 km
Explore Battell Chapel, a neo-Gothic gem in New Haven, offering breathtaking architecture, serene ambiance, and vibrant cultural events amidst Yale's historic campus.
New Haven Historical Marker - 1840 Amistad Trial
0.2 km
Explore the New Haven Historical Marker of the 1840 Amistad Trial - a crucial site that narrates the struggle for freedom and justice in American history.
Site Of Landmark 1840 Amistad Decision - Connecticut State House
0.2 km
Explore the historic site of the 1840 Amistad Decision in New Haven, Connecticut, a landmark of justice and human rights in American history.
Site Of Landmark 1840 Amistad Decision
0.2 km
Explore the Site of the Landmark 1840 Amistad Decision in New Haven, a pivotal historical landmark reflecting the fight for freedom and justice.
Trinity on the Green Episcopal Church
0.3 km
Discover Trinity on the Green, a stunning Anglican church in New Haven, where history meets tranquility in a picturesque urban setting.
St. Mary's Church
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of St. Mary's Church, a serene haven in New Haven, Connecticut.
The Women's Table
0.3 km
Discover The Women's Table, an inspiring sculpture and fountain in New Haven celebrating women's contributions to history and society.
Connecticut Hall
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Connecticut Hall, a must-visit landmark in New Haven, Connecticut.
Yale Old Campus
0.4 km
Discover the historic Yale Old Campus in New Haven, where stunning architecture and rich academic traditions create an unforgettable experience.
James Dwight Dana House
0.5 km
Discover the architectural elegance and historical significance of the James Dwight Dana House in New Haven, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Ninth Square Historic District
0.6 km
Discover the captivating blend of history, art, and culture in New Haven's Ninth Square Historic District, a must-visit for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Mead Visitor Center
0.1 km
Start your Yale University journey here! Maps, tours, and expert advice await at the Mead Visitor Center in downtown New Haven.
New Haven Green
0.1 km
Discover the tranquility of New Haven Green, a historic park in the heart of New Haven, Connecticut, surrounded by culture, history, and natural beauty.
Amistad Memorial
0.2 km
Explore the Amistad Memorial in New Haven, a moving tribute to the fight for freedom and justice for African captives aboard the Amistad slave ship.
Connecticut Children's Museum
0.3 km
Explore creativity and learning at the Connecticut Children's Museum, where fun meets education for children of all ages.
Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library
0.4 km
Explore the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, a stunning architectural gem housing priceless manuscripts and rare books in New Haven, CT.
Yale Collection of Musical Instruments
0.4 km
Explore the Yale Collection of Musical Instruments, a harmonious blend of history and artistry in New Haven, showcasing rare instruments from around the world.
Yale Memorial Carillon
0.4 km
Explore the Yale Memorial Carillon, a stunning musical tribute in New Haven, resonating with history and captivating performances for all visitors.
Harkness Tower
0.4 km
Explore Harkness Tower, a historic and cultural gem of Yale University, offering stunning architecture and breathtaking views of New Haven.
The Owl Shop
0.4 km
Discover The Owl Shop, where premium cigars, artisanal coffee, and live music create an unforgettable experience in New Haven.
Yale Center for British Art
0.5 km
Explore the Yale Center for British Art: A stunning collection of British masterpieces awaits you in New Haven, Connecticut.
Yale University Art Gallery
0.5 km
Explore the vast collection of the Yale University Art Gallery, where centuries of art await in a stunning architectural setting in New Haven.
Ely Center of Contemporary Art
0.6 km
Explore the dynamic world of contemporary art at the Ely Center of Contemporary Art in New Haven, a hub for creativity and inspiration.
Grove St Cemetery
0.6 km
Explore the historical Grove Street Cemetery in New Haven, a serene and artistic space where history and tranquility meet.
Escape New Haven
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms at Escape New Haven, where adventure meets teamwork in an unforgettable setting.
New Haven Museum
0.6 km
Explore the captivating history and culture of New Haven at the New Haven Museum, a must-visit for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
MofonGo Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at MofonGo Restaurant in New Haven - where flavor meets culture in every dish.
ZINC New Haven
0.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at ZINC New Haven - where modern American cuisine meets local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Lalibela Restaurant in New Haven – where culture meets cuisine in every delicious bite.
Prime 16
0.4 km
Experience gourmet burgers and local brews at Prime 16 – New Haven's premier sports bar and brewpub.
John Davenport's Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at John Davenport's Restaurant in downtown New Haven - where local flavors meet culinary excellence.
The Luke Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience modern French cuisine at The Luke Brasserie in New Haven – where tradition meets contemporary flair in every exquisite dish.
Elm City Social
0.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Elm City Social - New Haven's premier cocktail bar and gastropub offering innovative dishes and handcrafted drinks.
Union League Cafe
0.4 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine at Union League Cafe - where elegance meets culinary artistry in New Haven.
Barcelona Wine Bar
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and an extensive wine selection at Barcelona Wine Bar in New Haven – a culinary journey awaits!
Olives and Oil
0.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Olives and Oil in downtown New Haven—a culinary haven for food lovers.
Mecha Noodle Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Japan at Mecha Noodle Bar in New Haven - a must-visit for ramen lovers and cocktail aficionados.
Villa Lulu
0.5 km
Discover Villa Lulu in New Haven – where culinary innovation meets inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
olea
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Spain at Olea in New Haven—where culinary creativity meets tradition in every delicious dish.
South Bay Mediterranean Kitchen
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors at South Bay Kitchen in New Haven – where every dish tells a story.
Sunday Dinner Everyday
0.5 km
Savor authentic Jamaican flavors at Sunday Dinner Everyday – where every dish tells a story from the heart of Jamaica.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Walker Loden
0.2 km
Explore Walker Loden for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of New Haven, perfect for souvenirs or special occasions.
Zakka
0.4 km
Explore Zakka, New Haven's vibrant gift shop offering unique and stylish items, perfect for souvenirs and thoughtful presents.
EBM Vintage
0.4 km
Explore EBM Vintage in New Haven for unique antiques and vibrant plants, perfect for every style and home decor.
Noir Vintage & Company
0.4 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Noir Vintage & Company, a must-visit store in New Haven offering unique, timeless clothing and accessories.
Strange Ways
0.4 km
Explore Strange Ways in New Haven for unique gifts, fashion accessories, and local treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Sneaker Junkies
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of sneakers at Sneaker Junkies, New Haven's ultimate destination for unique and stylish footwear.
MINIPNG
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Explore MINIPNG, New Haven's premier vintage clothing store, where unique fashion meets nostalgia in a charming downtown setting.
idiom
0.4 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Idiom Boutique in downtown New Haven, where style meets personal service for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Raggs For Men and Women
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Soulful Threads
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Rainbow Shops
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New England's Finest
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dwell New Haven
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Uni-Home Life
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Merwin's Art Shop
0.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Trinity Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
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Ordinary
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Tequila Bar at Prime
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Anchor Spa
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Bar 19
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Vibes On Orange
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Elm City Tap house
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Vanity Restaurant, Nightclub and Entertainment Venue
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Barcade
0.5 km
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Stella Blues
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Stella Blues, New Haven's favorite bar for great drinks, live music, and delicious bites.
Secrets
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Secrets, New Haven's ultimate bar and dance club with exciting music, cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Zodiac Bar and Grill
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant dining scene at Zodiac Bar and Grill in New Haven, where great food meets lively atmosphere.
Firehouse 12
0.6 km
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BAR
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and unique microbrews at BAR, New Haven's ultimate brewpub and pizza destination.
Gryphon's Pub
0.6 km
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