Goethe-Institut New York

Profile

Cultural activities and language classes intersect at the New York branch of the Goethe-Institut. Serving as New York’s only German lending library, there are thousands of books, magazines, CDs, and DVDs that can either be checked out or perused in-house. The minimalistic interior space has a few computers (tastefully placed below a skylight to create a calming atmosphere), easily movable bookshelves, and comfortable seating areas. The large, walk-in-friendly ground-floor space also features an adjacent room with a projector that can accommodate the numerous events the institute holds every month, ranging from art exhibitions to film screenings to book talks. Language classes for groups and individuals are available on the fourth floor of the building, where smartboards and chic glass interiors have the feel of a college classroom. — Devon Ivie