This research guide provides an introduction to food studies material in the Manuscripts, Archives, and Rare Book collections of the New York Public Library. Archives and manuscripts are typically unpublished records, and rare books are printed works.
Food and taste are both shared experiences and deeply personal. This guide offers suggestions on how to approach these topics through primary sources. However, there is no wrong way to get started - research is a journey!
Table of Contents
- Home Cooking: materials related to obtaining and preparing food in the home
- Dining Out: collections with materials about restaurants and dining experiences
- Beverages: material about potables and drinking culture
- Images & Illustrations: visual materials to inspire creative projects
- Access: browsing materials and scheduling a visit
- Other Resources: more resources at other NYPL divisions and research centers, as well as other institutions
Highlights of the Collections
Robert F. Byrnes collection of automat memorabilia
New York Public Library menu collection
New York World's Fair 1939 and 1940 Incorporated records