Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Manhattan, United States

Manhattan, United States, Manhattan, Unique & Niche Travel Pages, Best Destinations for Book Lovers

Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Manhattan, United States

1. Strand Bookstore

America's largest independent bookstore with a unique collection of both modern and rare books.
  • Rare Collection: Offers an extensive collection of hard-to-find titles.
  • Independent Store: Supports independent authors and publishers.
  • Historic Building: Located in a historic building that dates back to the 19th century.

2. The New York Public Library

Iconic Beaux-Arts library offering free public access to books and resources.
  • Free Access: Provides free access to millions of books, periodicals, and other resources.
  • Lion Statues: Known for its two lion statues named Patience and Fortitude.
  • Exhibitions: Hosts various exhibitions showcasing rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts.

3. Barnes & Noble Union Square

Massive bookstore located in the heart of Manhattan, offering a wide variety of books, cafes, and events.
  • Wide Variety: Carries an extensive selection of books from various genres.
  • Café & Events: Features a café and hosts author events, book signings, and literary discussions.
  • Iconic Building: Located in a historic cast-iron building on Union Square.

4. The Morgan Library & Museum

Intimate museum and research library showcasing manuscripts, rare books, and works of art.
  • Rare Manuscripts: Houses a significant collection of rare manuscripts, including those by J.D. Salinger.
  • Art and Treasures: Features an impressive collection of illuminated manuscripts, musical instruments, and historical artifacts.
  • Intimate Setting: Offers a more intimate setting compared to larger libraries, making it easier to explore the collections in depth.

5. One World Observatory Library

Modern library located on the 102nd floor of One World Trade Center with a focus on New York City's history and culture.
  • Uniquely Located: Situated in one of Manhattan's most iconic buildings.
  • New York Focus: Features a collection dedicated to the history, culture, and future of New York City.
  • Breathtaking Views: Offers breathtaking views of Manhattan as an added bonus.

6. Housing Works Bookstore Cafe

Non-profit bookstore and café supporting HIV and AIDS services, offering a unique selection of books at affordable prices.
  • Affordable Prices: Books are sold at affordable prices to support the organization's mission.
  • Café & Events: Features a café and hosts events, book signings, and literary discussions.
  • Community Support: Proceeds from the store support Housing Works' mission to end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS.

7. McNally Jackson Books

Independent bookstore offering a well-curated selection of books across various genres, events, and workshops.
  • Well-Curated Selection: Carefully selected titles cater to diverse tastes and interests.
  • Events & Workshops: Hosts author events, book signings, and workshops aimed at fostering a love for reading.
  • Two Locations: Has two locations in SoHo and the West Village, each with its unique charm and atmosphere.

8. Washington Square Park

Famous urban park surrounded by bookstores, offering a tranquil setting to read outdoors.
  • Surrounded by Bookstores: Surrounded by several popular bookstores like Strand and McNally Jackson.
  • Historic Landmark: A historic park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, one of the designers of Central Park.
  • Tranquil Setting: An ideal spot to read a book or people-watch in a peaceful environment.

9. The Shakespeare Pub

Book-themed pub featuring literary quotes, trivia nights, and a vast collection of books.
  • Literary Quotes: Features literary quotes adorning the walls for a bookish atmosphere.
  • Trivia Nights: Hosts weekly trivia nights focused on literature and pop culture.
  • Vast Book Collection: Provides a vast collection of books for patrons to read while enjoying their drinks.

10. The Library Hotel

Book-themed hotel featuring 62 guest rooms each dedicated to a different genre of literature.
  • Literary Rooms: Each room is dedicated to a specific literary genre or author.
  • Library Bar: Features a cozy library-themed bar serving classic cocktails and light fare.
  • Bookish Experience: Offers a unique bookish experience for literary enthusiasts.

11. The Drinking Co. Library

Speakeasy-style bar hidden inside a law office featuring an extensive cocktail menu and bookish atmosphere.
  • Hidden Speakeasy: Located within a nondescript law office, accessed through a phone booth.
  • Extensive Cocktail Menu: Offers an extensive cocktail menu inspired by classic literature and historical figures.
  • Bookish Atmosphere: Features a book-filled atmosphere with quotes from famous books adorning the walls.

12. The Society Library

Private library offering members access to extensive collections, events, and a cozy reading room.
  • Exclusive Membership: Members-only access to the collection and facilities.
  • Events & Workshops: Hosts literary events, book clubs, and workshops for members.
  • Cozy Reading Room: A cozy reading room filled with comfortable chairs and a fireplace to enjoy your books.

13. The Rare Book Room at NYU

Research library specializing in rare books and manuscripts, available for scholarly research.
  • Rare Books & Manuscripts: Houses an extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts.
  • Scholarly Research: Available for scholarly research by appointment.
  • Historic Building: Located in a historic building on Washington Square.

14. The Center for Fiction

Non-profit literary organization offering book recommendations, events, and writing workshops.
  • Book Recommendations: Provides expertly curated book recommendations.
  • Events & Workshops: Hosts literary events, book clubs, and writing workshops for aspiring writers.
  • Community Engagement: Engages with the local community through various literary initiatives.

15. The Flea Theater

Off-off Broadway theater offering productions based on classic literature.
  • Classic Literature Adaptations: Produces plays and performances inspired by classic works of literature.
  • Off-off Broadway: A part of the New York City Off-Broadway theater scene.
  • Unique Productions: Presents unique and innovative interpretations of classic stories.