A book lover’s guide to New York

If there’s anyone who loves the Bard more than the Brits, it’s the Americans. So to mark Shakespeare’s birthday on 23 April we’ve rounded up the best literary-inspired events and places across New York. From library-themed hotels and bars to museums and lectures, there’s highbrow fun to be had, says New York-based blogger Alexandra King

The Library Hotel

Forgot to pack a book for your travels? No problem. The Library Hotel (above) has 6,000 across its 10 guestroom floors, with each room dedicated to a category. And if your suite’s collection leaves you hungry for more, the hotel is just steps away from the New York Public Library.

Bauman Rare Books

The chi-chi location of Bauman Rare Books on Madison Avenue says it all. This is the place to buy rare and beautiful books in New York City. The shelves are stacked, and the sales assistants offer attentiveness you normally find only at Madison Avenue’s fanciest clothing boutiques.

Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle

Tucked into the grand Carlyle Hotel, Bemelmans (above) is named after its designer, Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the classic Madeline children’s books. Bemelmans painted the walls with a fantasy world of picnicking rabbits and ice-skating elephants. Listening to soft jazz in the cocktail bar will inspire any budding writer.

Hudson Bar and Books

At this cosy West Village establishment, bartenders insist that a good cigar goes best with a cocktail and a classic piece of literature. The walls are lined with books you can sample along with one of the many fine smokes on offer.

The Morgan Library and Museum

In 1924, New York bank owner JP Morgan Jr donated his father Pierpont’s extraordinary library (above) to the public. Treasures range from a Shakespeare first folio to original Mozart manuscripts. All these and more are on display at Morgan’s former townhouse in Midtown.

McSorley’s Old Ale House

Immortalised in New York writer Joseph Mitchell’s classic essay McSorley’s Wonderful Saloon, this ale house (above) is one of the city’s oldest taverns. Ordering drinks is easy, with only two options – light or dark ale. As for reading material, the walls tell a thousand stories – there’s everything from old newspaper cuttings to Houdini’s handcuffs.

How Shakespeare Works, Cooper Union

If you want to get back to basics with the Bard, New York college The Cooper Union is offering nine free courses every Monday evening up until 9 May. Professor William Germano will cover tragedy, history and comedy with the emphasis on how Shakespeare’s plays are still relevant.

Alexandra King