The library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street opened on May 23, 1911, and is one of the city's most recognizable structures.
The exhibit celebrating the library's holdings includes a Gutenberg Bible and a copy of the Declaration of Independence handwritten by Thomas Jefferson.
While it preserves the past, the library has also embraced the 21st century by putting its catalog and images from its collection online.
The library has celebrated its birthday with a full schedule of events over the weekend and will host a centennial gala Monday night.
