The Rescue of the New York Public Library The Rescue of the New York Public Library
Activists—and The Nation—thwarted NYPL trustees’ harebrained plans and restored democracy to this vital public institution.
Jul 26, 2021 / Scott Sherman
How Citizen Action Saved the New York Public Library How Citizen Action Saved the New York Public Library
Grassroots activists thwarted a costly and destructive renovation scheme—but the NYPL still lacks effective governance.
Sep 28, 2017 / Feature / Scott Sherman
Benedict Anderson’s View of Nationalism Benedict Anderson’s View of Nationalism
The child of late empire, who transformed the field of area studies, lived a life beyond boundaries.
May 19, 2016 / Books & the Arts / Scott Sherman
The Battle of 42nd Street The Battle of 42nd Street
The demise of the New York Public Library’s Central Library Plan is the end of a Bloomberg-era castle in the sky.
May 14, 2014 / Scott Sherman
NYPL Shelves Plan to Gut Central Library NYPL Shelves Plan to Gut Central Library
After public outcry, the library’s $300 million project to demolish stacks and sell off branch libraries has collapsed.
May 7, 2014 / Books & the Arts / Scott Sherman
University Presses Under Fire University Presses Under Fire
How the Internet and slashed budgets have endangered one of higher education’s most important institutions.
May 6, 2014 / Books & the Arts / Scott Sherman
Time Is Running Out for Mayor Bill de Blasio to Halt the New York Public Library’s Disastrous Renovation Plan Time Is Running Out for Mayor Bill de Blasio to Halt the New York Public Library’s Disastrous Renovation Plan
In mid-December, the Main Library’s celebrated stacks were booked for demolition.
Jan 15, 2014 / Scott Sherman
The Hidden History of New York City’s Central Library Plan The Hidden History of New York City’s Central Library Plan
Why did one of the world’s greatest libraries adopt a $300 million transformation without any real public debate?
Aug 28, 2013 / Feature / Scott Sherman
Save the New York Public Library! Save the New York Public Library!
The current renovation plan is too costly and will ruin the landmark 42nd Street building. A reasonable compromise is still on the table.
Apr 17, 2013 / Books & the Arts / Scott Sherman
University Presidents—Speak Out! University Presidents—Speak Out!
Where are their voices on the major issues of the day?
Feb 20, 2013 / Feature / Scott Sherman