How can I access the New York Times Online?

Read The New York Times for free with Alameda County Library. Whether you're visiting a library location or reading from anywhere else, we offer easy ways to stay informed, explore recipes, play puzzles, and more.

In the Library

You can access The New York Times for free while connected to library Wi-Fi or using a library computer:

  • How to Access: To avoid the paywall, begin at nytimes.com/register, then create a free New York Times account or sign in with an existing one that does not have an active paid subscription.
  • What's Included: 
    • Reading on NYTimes.com in a web browser
    • News, Cooking, Wirecutter, The Athletic, and more
  • What's Not Included: 
    • Access to their mobile app
    • Some games, including The Mini, Tiles, Letter Boxed, and the games archive

Outside the Library

You can get a free 72-hour All Access Pass with your library card.

  • How to Access: 
    • Use the access link from our New York Times eResource page.
    • Enter your library card number and PIN.
    • Create a free New York Times account or sign in with an existing one that does not have an active paid subscription.
    • Activate your 72-hour pass. After activating your pass, you might notice your expiration time and optional email preferences. You can change email settings later.
  • What's Included: 
    • Access on NYTimes.com
    • Access in the New York Times mobile app
    • The full games library (including Wordle and Spelling Bee)
    • Cooking, Wirecutter, The Athletic, Audio, and more
  • How to Renew Your Pass: Use the access link from our New York Times eResource page to renew your pass. You can renew as often as you like. If you are logged into your NYTimes account during those 72-hours, you can go to nytimes.com or use the app directly. You only need to use the access link to renew your pass.

How to Claim Your Pass

  1. Access Link: Click this access link or select it on our NYTimes eResource pages (Inside the Library or At Home and On the Move). 
    • In the Library: If you use Library Wi-Fi or computers, no library card or PIN is needed.
    • Outside the Library: If you are at home or on the move, you need to enter your library card number and PIN when prompted.
  2. Log in or Create Account: Use your existing NYTimes account or create one for free using your email and a password.
  3. Claim Your 72-hour Pass: A confirmation screen will show when your pass expires. After 72 hours, you can use the same access link to renew.