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A Book Lovers Guide to New York City

Published: May 21st, 2014

If you’re an avid reader and book lover like we are, you’re always searching for your next big literary adventure. Whether it’s between the pages of a bestseller or just getting lost in a new city, there’s nothing like letting your imagination run wild! New York City is full of iconic literary treasures where you can channel your favorite author while shopping, eating, and even sleeping among books. Ever wonder what “18 Miles of Books” looks like? Then you must check out Strand Bookstore in Union Square. If you’re a Dylan Thomas fanatic, make sure you stop by White Horse Tavern for a shot of whiskey and Minetta Tavern for their burger. Of course, we want you to visit all of the sites listed in your guidebook but when it comes to a book lover’s ideal vacation, Library Hotel Collection is here to help you read between the lines. We’re thrilled to share our favorite places in this “Book lover’s Guide to NYC” and truly hope you’re able to explore each one!  

New York Public Library42nd St & 5th Ave This National Historic Landmark is a must-see for any booklover in NYC!  Be sure to walk along Library Way to see the plaques featuring literary quotes and illustrations nestled in the sidewalk.

 Library Hotel41st & Madison The 10 guestroom floors of our hotel honor the categories of the Dewey Decimal System, with each room featuring a collection of books and art exploring a distinctive topic.  In the evenings, visit Bookmarks Lounge to sip literary cocktails on the rooftop, with views of the New York Public Library.

Strand BookstoreBroadway & 12th St With “18 Miles of Books”, the Strand offers a collections of over 2.5 million used, new, and rare books.  Pick up the perfect gift for any booklover or browse the rare book room, with coveted first editions!

White Horse Tavern – Hudson St & 11th S Perhaps most famous for the bar where Dylan Thomas had his last 18 shots of whiskey before passing away days later, the White Horse was a favorite among writers, such as Jack Kerouac, Hunter S. Thompson, James Baldwin, Norman Mailer,  and Allen Ginsberg.

The Morgan Library & Museum37th St & Madison Ave The museum houses an expansive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and art within the breathtaking architecture of the once private library of J.P. Morgan.

Hotel Elysée54th St between Park & Madison Our very own Hotel Elysée was home to playwright Tennessee Williams for 15 years until his death in 1983.  Spend a night in the Presidential Suite adorned with an original Playbill from “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and a collection of his works, among photos and other memorabilia.

Housing Works Bookstore CaféCrosby St between Prince St & Houston St Whether attending a special event, buying or donating a book, or having a coffee in the café, you’ll be contributing to a wonderful cause!  This bookstore is staffed by volunteers and donates all profits to Housing Works, Inc., providing housing, healthcare, and advocacy for New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS.

Minetta TavernMacDougal St & Minetta Ln Since it’s opening in 1937, this restaurant has been frequented by many famous authors, including Ernest Hemingway, Dylan Thomas, E.E. Cummings, Ezra Pound, and Joe Gould.

Central Park5th Ave to Central Park W, 59th St to 110th St Take a stroll through the park’s Literary Walk, boasting statues of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Fitz-Greene Halleck, and William Shakespeare along the American elm-lined path.  Or visit Shakespeare Garden, featuring quotes from the author scattered amongst plants and flowers mentioned in his many poem and plays, as well as those found in his own garden in Stratford-upon-Avon.

McNally Jackson BooksPrince St between Lafayette St & Mulberry St This independent bookstore offers two floors of books with a staff eager to help you sift through the literature, arranged by nation!  Be sure to stop by the café for a cup of tea and a pastry from a local NYC supplier. For more information, please contact one of our concierges (or as we like to call them “Honorary Librarians”) of the Library Hotel Collection. They would be thrilled to assist you in planning a literary lovers trip to New York City!