Ep 6. Hall of Records

In the sixth episode of the first season of Pretend It's a City, titled "Hall of Records," Fran Lebowitz dives into the topic of archives and record keeping in New York City.

Lebowitz begins by explaining the importance of archives and the role they play in preserving the history and culture of a city. She then takes viewers on a tour of several archives and institutions in New York City, including the New York Public Library and the Municipal Archives.

During her visit to the New York Public Library, Lebowitz meets with curators and historians who discuss the library's vast collection of documents, books, and artifacts. She also shares her own personal experiences with the library, recalling the hours she spent there as a teenager and the impact it had on her love for literature.

Lebowitz then heads to the Municipal Archives, which holds over 200 years of New York City records. Here, she speaks with archivists and historians who explain the importance of preserving government documents and how they can provide insight into everything from city planning to the daily lives of New Yorkers.

Throughout the episode, Lebowitz also offers her own humorous and insightful commentary on the challenges of maintaining archives in a city with such a rich and complex history. She muses on the difficulty of keeping track of everything from old street signs to handwritten ledgers, and reflects on the ways in which the city's archives can help shape our understanding of its past and present.

Overall, "Hall of Records" offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the vital role archives play in preserving New York City's history and culture. Lebowitz's wit and humor add a unique twist to the episode, making it both educational and entertaining for viewers.