Now We’re Cooking!

Whether you’re a new cook, an experienced one, or you want to explore a new diet you’ve heard about, you’ll find what you need at the Library. The Hot Picks cooking display near the entrance of the Library has exciting new cookbooks, but there’s a delicious selection of cookbooks upstairs too - about 144 shelves of them, in fact! Classics, international, gluten free, one-pot, it’s all there! It can be overwhelming, so it’s worthwhile to take a moment to narrow things down. Here are some tips to help you start your culinary adventure at the Library:

Search the Catalog

The catalog can help you focus. Even a simple keyword search like “baking, opens a new window” or “appetizers, opens a new window” will give you good results and send you to the right shelf.

Follow the Signs

We’ve added some small signs on the shelves upstairs to help you navigate, or you can ask the librarian at the Reference Desk.

Stop By the Cookbook Swap

Looking for an opportunity to add to your own personal cookbook collection? Participate in our upcoming Cookbook Swap, opens a new window event. Bring your gently used cookbooks to the Readers Services Desk between Friday, April 26 and Friday, May 3. Come back on Saturday, May 4 to pick out exciting new additions for your collection.

Recipes in Your Pocket

Craving culinary creativity when the Library is closed? Access New York Times Online, opens a new window: Cooking for how-to guides and over 19,000 expert-tested recipes for home cooks at every skill level.

See What Staff is Cooking

Seeking tasty recommendations, opens a new window? Explore our curated cookbook lists for more cooking inspiration. From quick and easy weeknight meals to books to help you find your inner chef, we've got you covered.

Keep on cookin’ and we'll see you upstairs!