The New York Public Library is a big building in New York City where lots of books and other cool stuff is kept. It's a very important place for people who love reading and learning new things.
Lots of movies and TV shows have shown the New York Public Library because it's a really famous and recognizable building. In Ghostbusters, the library is where some spooky ghosts hang out. In The Day After Tomorrow, the library is where people have to go to keep warm during a really big snowstorm.
The New York Public Library has also been mentioned in songs and books, because it's such an important and special place. People like to visit the library because it's a great place to learn new things and relax with a good book.