New York declared its independence on July 9, 1776, becoming one of the original 13 states of the Federal Union. On April 20, 1777 New York's first constitution was adopted.
New York is situated across a region of contrast from the Atlantic shores of Long Island and the skyscrapers of Manhattan through the rivers, mountains, and lakes of upstate New York to the plains of the Great Lakes region. With canals, railroads, and highways, New York is a principal gateway to the west from the Middle Atlantic and New England states and a hub for travel to and from much of the country.
This guide compiles links to digital materials related to New York such as books, government documents, manuscripts, maps, motion pictures, photographs, sheet music, and sound recordings that are available throughout the Library of Congress website. In addition, it provides links to external websites focusing on New York and a bibliography containing selected works for both general and younger readers.