Photo: Courtesy of The Library Hotel
There’s no denying that New York is among the world’s most eclectic cities — fittingly, it also boasts some seriously unique lodging options. Take The Library Hotel, for example. This striking boutique hotel is a literary lover’s dream come true, with no detail left unturned (pun intended, of course). Ahead, our full review of this bibliophile-beloved oasis — which has attracted the likes of literary greats such as David Baldacci, Nelson Demille, John Grisham, Amy Tan, Erica Jong, Dava Sobel, and Diane Ackerman — in the middle of Manhattan.
The Look of The Library Hotel
You’ll find nods to novels from the moment you pull up to the eye-catching neo-gothic style exterior, which dates back to 1912 and boasts 100 bronze plaques with famous literary quotes. Inside, the cozy lobby is filled with hundreds — if not thousands — of books and comfortable seating in which guests can settle in to enjoy them.
However, it’s the other common spaces that really wow. The second-floor Reading Room looks and feels like a cozy library with plenty of seating along with even more books, and the year-round outdoor terrace right off the 14th-floor Poetry Garden is an ideal spot to read al fresco. On the same floor, you’ll also find the Writer’s Den, which, come nighttime, turns into a bustling cocktail lounge called Bookmarks Lounge.
Meanwhile, the 60 guest rooms are spread across 10 floors, each of which is themed after the 10 main categories of the Dewey Decimal System, which is also how the hotel’s 6,000 books are organized. (Examples include Religion, Math & Sciences, The Arts, Literature, and more.) While the selection of in-room books and artwork varies depending on the floor you’re on, each guest room is equipped with elegant dark wood furnishings and tufted headboards. Cheeky embroidered throw pillows that read “Book Lovers Never Go To Bed Alone” add a playful flair.
The Vibe of The Library Hotel
Quiet but somehow also buzzy, the hotel feels like a super stylish library. Most of the common spaces, with the exception of the on-site bar and restaurant and the aforementioned Writer’s Den, are designed to serve as a tranquil oases for reading and relaxing. Here, guests can leave the hustle of the city behind and simply curl up with a good book.
Who Will Love The Library Hotel
Bibliophiles — especially couples and solo travelers — will enjoy a stay at this funky concept hotel. For an ultra-romantic experience, book the Love Room, which features a collection of books that were hand-selected by sex therapist and talk show host Dr. Ruth Westheimer. It’s also the only room with a private balcony.
Who Might Not Love The Library Hotel
Those craving a more lively stay may be happier elsewhere: The serene vibe isn’t for everyone.
The Best Amenity at The Library Hotel
The 14th-floor rooftop, which is home to the Writer’s Den and Poetry Garden, is especially noteworthy for its cozy ambiance and postcard-worthy skyline views. Here, guests are invited to cozy up by the fireplace, post up in the greenhouse, or, come nighttime, sip on literary-inspired cocktails like the Catcher in the Rye (Sagamore rye, angostura, lavender bitters) at Bookmarks Lounge. We’d also be remiss not to mention the property’s impressive collection of 6,000 hardcover books for guests to comb through.
What’s Included at The Library Hotel
Your stay includes concierge service and access to a Blink Fitness, as well as access to the on-site restaurant and bar, Madison & Vine, and common spaces such as the 14th-floor rooftop — which encompasses the Writer’s Den, Poetry Garden, and Bookmarks Lounge — and second-floor Reading Room. Fresh fruit, health bars, snacks, coffee, tea, soft drinks, flavored water, and more are available in the Reading Room 24 hours a day, and guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and digital access to The New York Times.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at The Library Hotel
There’s a daily resort fee of $25.
How to Get a Deal at The Library Hotel
Visit the hotel’s packages and promotions page under the special offers tab to view the latest deals, including up to 10% off room rates.
The Sweet Season
There’s never a bad time to visit New York, and really, there’s no such thing as a low season. The closest to this you’ll get, however, just might be after the holidays, from January through March.
In the Neighborhood of The Library Hotel
The Library Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan on Madison Avenue and East 41st Street. The property is just steps away from top spots like the New York Public Library, Bryant Park, and Summit One Vanderbilt. Times Square, the Theater District, and the Empire State Building are also within a 10-minute walk.
Nearest Airport to The Library Hotel
LGA is about eight miles away.
Nearest Public Transportation to The Library Hotel
Grand Central Terminal is right around the corner and offers service to the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S subway lines, making it easy to go almost anywhere in Manhattan and The Big Apple’s four other boroughs.
This lovely literary-themed hotel is Midtown Manhattan’s best-kept secret.