Is there a way to know if you're widely read enough? Is there a way to know who you should be reading, who's the next big thing?
No and no.
As for your library problem: Does New York have an interlibrary loan system? I get most of my books through the WI ILL, as my local library is smaller than my front room. Another option is to look into local universities. Sometimes you can buy, for a nominal fee, a university library card which will give you access to not only their resources, but often all of the university libraries in the country.
I don't know how much time you spend reading. As a soon-to-be professional writer, reading should take up a good chunk of the day. It is, afterall, a primary means by which a writer extends and practices her chosen trade.
no subject
No and no.
As for your library problem: Does New York have an interlibrary loan system? I get most of my books through the WI ILL, as my local library is smaller than my front room. Another option is to look into local universities. Sometimes you can buy, for a nominal fee, a university library card which will give you access to not only their resources, but often all of the university libraries in the country.
I don't know how much time you spend reading. As a soon-to-be professional writer, reading should take up a good chunk of the day. It is, afterall, a primary means by which a writer extends and practices her chosen trade.