New York Public Library receives million donation to enhance adult education programs.

The New York Public Library has received a monumental million donation from philanthropists Lynne and Richard Pasculano, an act that promises to significantly enhance the library’s adult education programs during this holiday season. This latest contribution mirrors their earlier generosity, as the couple had recently allocated an identical amount to support contemporary dance initiatives at Lincoln Center, a cultural cornerstone in Manhattan.

Library officials recognize the timing of this donation as particularly fortuitous. The funds will bolster programs that include English-as-a-second-language courses, workforce development, and digital literacy training. These services are increasingly crucial, given the growing demand for educational resources stemming from the influx of migrants to the city in recent years. According to Anthony Marx, President and CEO of the New York Public Library, this generous gift will facilitate numerous opportunities for New Yorkers and play a vital role in advancing the library’s mission to promote lifelong learning.

Marx expressed profound gratitude for the Pasculanos’ continued support, highlighting their significant impact on the library’s history of philanthropy. He noted that their legacy marks a pivotal moment for the institution, which has long benefitted from the generosity of its patrons. This latest donation builds on previous contributions from the Pasculano family, totaling .5 million, dedicated to improving adult learning resources at the library.

The New York Public Library stands out as a principal non-municipal provider of English language instruction in the city. In 2025, attendance in its English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs has already exceeded 200,000—a notable increase from the previous year. Additionally, the library operates the TechConnect program, which offers thousands of digital literacy courses annually, enabling New Yorkers to acquire vital skills, ranging from basic computer proficiency to advanced app development.

The library’s career services division plays an instrumental role in workforce development, assisting individuals with business startup guidance, resume creation, and interview preparation. These resources are particularly beneficial for asylum seekers, who often turn to public libraries for support in establishing their new lives in the city.

With 90 branches across Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island, the New York Public Library is a hub of knowledge and opportunity, relying on both public and private funding to sustain its extensive programs. The generous donation from the Pasculanos reaffirms the library’s commitment to providing essential educational services to all New Yorkers, particularly as the city continues to evolve.

As the library prepares to implement these new programs, the Pasculano family’s contributions exemplify the enduring impact of philanthropy on public resources, shaping the educational landscape of New York City for years to come.