When I think about some of my best experiences traveling, the memories are of coming back to the hotel after a long day, settling into a comfortable chair in the lobby, ordering a drink and a snack, and settling in with a book I’ve pulled off the shelf. It is a moment to rest, reflect, and recharge for the next adventure, and best of all does not require an app or a screen. And I am not alone in appreciating this new quiet luxury. Friends and family members often send me photos of their favorite hotel lobbies, and the common theme is not only do they all have books, but the addition of those collections created a sense of warmth and belonging. Libraries are definitely having a moment in hospitality design, and for good reason.
The Case for a Hotel Library
There has been a sense of this for a while in the hospitality design world, but there is a rapidly growing guest desire for analog, screen-free experiences as part of their hotel stay. Hotel libraries are perfectly positioned to fill this need as they signal intentionality and taste, in addition to saying something meaningful about a property’s identity. Carefully curated book collections become conversation pieces and, when done correctly, can differentiate a hotel from its competitors as well. The key is to create a connection to place through books about local history, nature, or those written by regional authors. All these elements will deepen a guest’s understanding of where they are in the world. Finally, a beautifully curated collection is one of the most cost-effective ways to add warmth, texture, and personality to a space.
How it Works: Bespoke Solutions
Most hotel libraries operate entirely on the honor system with no formal checkout required. While this practice speaks to the intent of access to a library, as books are meant to be perused, read, and shared, it can present challenges for hotel management. A simple in-room or shelf card explaining the “borrow and return” expectation is usually sufficient; for properties that are more concerned about missing books or have experienced issues in the past, there are several bespoke solutions available. These range from simple sign-out sheets to the original library card pocket, which is a charming touch, or simple barcoding programs that can be connected to existing hotel management systems. The key to a successful hotel borrowing library is creating a system in advance to address what happens when a book is not returned, as invariably a book will walk off at some point. Management plans can include building in a small “loss budget” to replace lost titles or adding language to guest folios about unreturned books in a similar manner to a minibar policy. The most important thing, regardless of the policies in place, is to frame this policy in a gracious and positive manner. Adding language such as, “If a book finds its forever home with you, we only ask that you pass along a great read to a stranger,” this tone captures the spirit of a library and sets a positive tone for future stays.
Starting Your Library: A Practical Guide
A hotel library can range in size from a small set of shelves in the lobby to an entire dedicated reading room. Regardless of the initial size, consider the following as you start building your hotel library.
- Define your collection identity. What is your property’s story? Mountain lodge, coastal retreat, urban boutique? The books should reflect and amplify that narrative.
- Curate by category. One guest may love historical fiction, another non-fiction. Create a mix of local titles, design and architecture books, travel and adventure books, literary fiction, regional cookbooks, and a few beloved classics to ensure there is something for everyone.
- Source thoughtfully. Work with a library design consultant or local independent bookstore when sourcing your books for the space. Avoid buying in bulk or by color, as guests can tell when a collection is authentic vs. decorative. Every title on the shelf should earn its spot through its connection to the place or literary merit.
- Design the display. Beautifully styled bookshelves not only add warmth to a space, they draw a person in to browse and engage. Consider shelving placement, styling by category, and the use of bookends and other decorative objects to round out the collection. The books should be displayed with intentionality and care.
While a hotel library alone adds an incredible amount of value to the guest experience, it can also create a multitude of opportunities to further extend the experience and create community and connection. For example, book recommendations from staff members add a personal touch, while beautifully styled library shelves create the perfect social media moment. Hotels can also partner with local authors, bookstores, and book clubs to hold literary events like author talks, writer’s workshops, and the now-popular reading retreat. The hotel library is not a short-lived trend either. It has been a time-honored element of some of the most iconic hotels and resorts for generations now, and its resurgence in this day in age is a testament to the beauty, value, and authenticity that guests are looking for in a hospitality space.
About the Author
Annie Stefani, MLIS is the founder and principal curator of Wonderwood Books & Library Services, a residential and hospitality library design studio based in Tahoe City, Calif. A lifelong reader and avid traveler, she loves helping clients create beautiful spaces that connect people through storytelling. To learn more, visit www.wonderwoodbooks.com or reach out to annie@wonderwoodbooks.com.
