The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is thrilled to announce that the Lou Reed Archive has been processed and is now available to users. The Lou Reed Archive documents the history of Reed’s life as a musician, composer, poet, writer, photographer, and tai-chi student through his own extensive papers, photographs, recordings and other materials. The archive spans Reed’s creative life—from his 1958 Freeport High School band, the Shades, to his final performances in 2013.

The Library for the Performing Arts is celebrating the opening of the Lou Reed archive with a special edition library card, a display of collection items, and more.

Anyone with an existing NYPL card is welcome to get the Lou Reed special edition card at The Library for the Performing Arts for the card replacement fee of $1. If you have never had a NYPL card, please visit The Library for the Performing Arts to apply in person or click here to Apply Now. Get more information about the Lou Reed card.