The New York Public Library holds nearly 10,000 archival and manuscript collections comprising over 50,000 linear feet of material in nearly every format imaginable. They preserve evidence (often unique and unpublished) of human activity and achievement that forms a basis for the study of political, social, economic, and cultural history. Each year, these collections inform and inspire the work of scholars, writers, artists, filmmakers, family historians, and other advanced researchers who seek and then share the new knowledge and perspectives revealed to them through these resources.

Archives and manuscripts are also exploited by the Library and other institutions to exhibit, teach, and build educational tools —all of which provide the general public and students of all ages the opportunity to learn about the human experience through primary sources.