I’ve mentioned before how much I love libraries. I’d like to have a proper library in my house someday (and not just because of that scene in Atonement!). But until that happens, it’s fun to enjoy the library feel – dark paneled walls, miles of bookshelves, comfortable chairs, and amber lighting – while on vacation. There are thousands of hotels that feature old fashioned libraries, but here are just a few for you to savor:
*courtesy of The Library Hotel
The Library Hotel, New York City
A whole hotel with a library theme? Where do I sign up? Each floor is dedicated to a subject of the Dewey Decimal System, such as History, Literature, Arts, and Technology. Each room on that floor has a different theme complete with book selections that follow suit. For instance the Literature floor has an Erotic room, Fairytales room, or Mysteries room (to name a few). The hotel features complimentary tea and cookies in the reading room, a late check-out time in case you really couldn’t put that book down the night before, and a great midtown location just a jog away from the famous NY public library (site of Carrie’s Sex and the City wedding). This place conspires to keep you literary minded travelers happy and well-read.
*courtesy of The Saint James Paris
The Library Bar, Saint James Hotel, Paris
The library bar at this unique Paris chateau-hotel is filled with little red shaded lamps, ornate décor details, leather club chairs and a mezzanine of bookshelves… not to mention lots of booze. While I’m not one for drinking and reading, being surrounded by books while having a nightcap seems quite elegant and civilized. Unfortunately the library bar is only for residents and hotel guests, but the chateau is so lovely that it might be worth plunking down the 400 Euro to stay the night.
*courtesy of The Hudson Hotel
The Library Bar, Hudson Hotel, New York City
From their website:
“Reminiscent of an old English club or drawing room, the Library is the perfect cozy hangout for relaxing by the enormous fireplace, chatting and drinking with friends, shooting billiards, playing a computer game, or reading a book from its extensive collection on topics ranging from film, theater, fashion and art, to travel and politics.”
Oh yes please! English style libraries with big fireplaces are the perfect backdrop for those passionate dates with your significant other. I’m thinking Heathcliff and Cathy, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, Jane and Mr. Rochester, or James Bond and Moneypenny (ok a stretch…).
