Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library stands on a site with a long, varied history that includes far more than books. Before this building became a home for literature, the corner hosted the Croton Cottage, a popular tavern where locals refreshed themselves after walking the promenade atop the massive Croton Distributing Reservoir that once occupied the land across Fifth Avenue. The cottage was a landmark of its own until it was burned down during the New York City draft riots of eighteen sixty-three.