Visit JHF Collection

Before making plans, please take a moment to read about the Theatre on Film and Tape (TOFT) Archive here, and how to view something in the collection here.

Today is the day!  You’ve looked at our listings, read the above links and made your appointment by calling TOFT (212) 870-1642, you have your New York Public Library card or documents to obtain one on site, or you are visiting NY for research and have read this link, and you have found your way to Lincoln Center. There are two main entrances to the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts.  One at 111 Amsterdam Avenue and the other via Josie Robertson Plaza at Lincoln Center with the beautiful iconic fountain .  We will start our journey at the fountain.  If you enter via Amsterdam Avenue, scroll down to bag inspection.

Walk towards the fountain and go to the right of it.  

You will see the Metropolitan Opera Box Office.  Head towards the box office and go just to the right of it down a couple of steps.  

Tucked in the back you will see a building, just beyond the trees and a large black sculpture.

This is the NYPL for the Performing Arts!

BAG INSPECTION

Once you enter the building you will need to have your bag inspected by a security guard.

After your bag has been inspected you will see in front of you a large red welcome desk that curves around.  Go to the right of this desk and continue walking straight to the back.

You will see display cases on your left and the Donald and Mary Oenslager gallery that has wonderful exhibits just ahead of you.  

At the end of the hallway take a right.  

As you walk forward you’ll see a computer bay to your left and some elevators to your right.  Go to the elevators!  Side note: there is a cafe’ just beyond the elevators if you need a snack.

Press the UP button and take the elevator to the 3rd floor.

When you exit the elevator you will see a desk in front of you with a security guard, bathrooms and drinking fountain to your left and a coat and bag check to your right.

Before entering the research reading room you will need to check all coats, jackets and bags.  Be sure to take your wallet and any valuables with you.  Specific policies governing personal belongings in the Research Reading Room can be found here.

You are now ready to enter the reading room, the entrance is just to the left of the security desk.

Upon entering you will see a large red “Audio Visual” desk.  Don’t be fooled, this isn’t the Theatre on Film and Tape Archive.  You’re very close, but you’re not there yet.  

Immediately turn right and walk straight ahead with the computer bay on your left and the glass wall with elevators on your right.  

At the end of the computer bay look to your left and you will see the doorway for the Theatre on Film and Tape Archive.  

Walk through and you will see the Lucille Lortel Room Theatre on Film and Tape.  You made it!

When you enter the staff will have you sign a form and will then set you up at a viewing station.

Individuals can watch a film, or a group can watch the same film – each at their own station.  Each viewing station has a video monitor, headphones, and a computer.  The computer allows for you to have some control over the playback of the video – rewind, fast forward, etc.  You also have the ability to message the technicians over the computer if you need assistance.

You have finished watching your selected performance and it’s time to go.  Don’t forget to gather your belongings at the coat and baggage check.  Upon exiting the building a security guard will inspect your bag, just as they did when you entered.