Calling all NYC art lovers! There’s no need to plan a museum heist to get your hands on some precious pieces, as you can now borrow real pieces of art from the Brooklyn Public Library.
In lieu of a black turtleneck and an elaborate escape plan, you’ll now just need a valid NYC library card. The library’s new Art Lending Program lets patrons check out original works from local artists—just like a book.
You can take home framed paintings, photographs, and prints for up to three weeks at a time, giving New Yorkers the unique opportunity to add a touch of the city’s creative spirit right into their living rooms.
🎨The great art caper (that’s totally legal)
With this newly launched Art Lending Program, library cardholders can now borrow real works of art for up to three weeks, with no security cameras to dodge or laser grids to leap through. The program features around 20 original pieces by contemporary artists, including Asad Raza, Ilana Harris-Babou, Hilma’s Ghost, Shanzhai Lyric, Kameelah Janan Rasheed and many more.
This initiative revives a 1970s pilot program, reimagined for a new generation of art lovers who believe masterpieces belong on everyone’s walls, not just in museums.
The program is another fantastic initiative contributing to the accessibility of art in the city, and worldwide. Between free galleries, street art everywhere we turn, free museum nights for New Yorkers and so much more, NYC is constantly proving that art is for everyone.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of having a gallery-worthy piece hanging in your living room, your next great art heist just requires one thing: a Brooklyn Public Library card.
🗽How to get a Brooklyn Library Card
- ✅ Check your eligibility: Anyone who lives, works, attends school, or pays property taxes in New York State can get a free library card.
- 📝 Apply online or in person: Visit the library’s website and fill out a quick online form, or head there with a photo ID and proof of address (like a lease, utility bill, or piece of mail).
- 🪪 Get your card: You’ll receive a physical card on the spot (or by mail) and immediate digital access to books, music, films—and now, even art you can take home.
In fact, art is just the latest installment of what members can borrow from the Brooklyn Public Library.
The card entitles you to tons of freebies, including museum tickets, recording studio reservations, the ability to borrow tools, instruments, board games, vinyl records, a telescope, and so much more!
Learn more about the program on the Brooklyn Library’s website!