Lenox Library

library, United States

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June 30, 2026

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The Lenox Library was a precursor to the New York Public Library. It was established in 1870 from the collection of James Lenox, an American philanthropist and avid book collector. Lenox inherited a fortune and dedicated his life to amassing rare books, manuscripts, and art. His collection, which focused on Bibles, books about the Americas, early Americana, and works by authors like Shakespeare and Milton, was made available to the public in 1870. In 1895, the Lenox Library merged with the Astor Library and the Tilden Foundation to form the New York Public Library.1

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James Lenox
In 1895 the Lenox Library (containing about 85,000 volumes), the Astor Library, and the Tilden Foundation were consolidated to become the New York Public Library.
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In 1895 the Lenox Library (containing about 85,000 volumes), the Astor Library, and the Tilden Foundation were consolidated to become the New York Public Library.
Read More