The name of the new space, which is located on the mezzanine level of the lobby, honors the history of the building, which was previously the Astor Library. It is designed by The Rockwell Group, founded by Tony-winning scenic designer and architect David Rockwell (Hairspray, The Normal Heart, A Free Man of Color). The 2,000-square-foot lounge, expected to seat roughly 84 guests, will take on a vintage feel, with a textured area rug in the central gathering area, distressed leather chairs, and industrial steel-frame bookcases along the perimeter of the room, all evoking the space's previous life as the Astor Library.
The Library will serve cocktails, wine, beer and an "American menu of classic and signature dishes, appetizers, bar snacks, and desserts" nightly until 2 AM. The venue expands on the liquor license and kitchen of Joe's Pub.
"The Library is where our audience and artists can meet, talk, eat, drink, and extend the conversation past the curtain call. It’s going to be a beautiful expression of the community of The Public Theater," said Public Theater artistic director Oskar Eustis in a statement.