About – Neilson Hays Library

About Us

Sharing Literature and the Arts

The Neilson Hays Library has become a much-loved institution since its foundation in 1869. We treasure our history and strive to remain an oasis in the Bangrak neighborhood and Bangkok community. We seek to promote English literacy and to foster a love of literature, particularly among younger generations.

Our diverse events: book club, second hand book sales, concerts, children’s activities, and café are popular features of the library. Become a member to enjoy our collection of approximately 20,000 books.

The elegant neo-classical building is not only the centrepiece of our library, but also a coveted venue for private events – including weddings, product launches, and corporate functions.

The library is run by a small team of staff, supported by a volunteer Library Association Board and a hard working team of volunteers (Friends of the Neilson Hays Library). We are the oldest not-for-profit organisation in Thailand and warmly welcome financial assistance with our endeavours from both the corporate sector and the community.

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VISION

We envision the Library as an inclusive cultural center for our community. A place that welcomes people of all backgrounds to come together and engage in conversations about literature and the arts.

MISSION

Our core activity is to serve as a book repository that inspires a passion for the magic of books. But along with the love of reading and writing, we are dedicated to providing resources and programs for audiences who believe in the nurturing and healing power of the arts in general.

Library Collection

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“I love books. I adore everything about them. I love the feel of the pages on my fingertips. They are light enough to carry, yet so heavy with worlds and ideas. I love the sound of the pages flicking against my fingers. Print against fingerprints. Books make people quiet, yet they are so loud.” — Nnedi Okorafor, The Book of Phoenix

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Housing approximately 20,000 books, the Neilson Hays Library is one of the largest collections of English language titles in Bangkok open to the general public. Offering a wide variety of contemporary fiction, non-fiction and children’s books, new books are added to the collection every month.

VISIT US

A donation of 100 THB is required per person from non-members using the library’s facilities. Neilson Hays Library is a non-profit organization funded by members’ subscription.

OPERATING HOURS

Tuesday – Sunday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
(closed Monday)

ADDRESS

195 Surawong Road
Suriyawongse, Bangrak
Bangkok 10500, Thailand

Tel: 662 233 1731
email: info@neilsonhayslibrary.org

BUSINESS POLICY

20,000

Books and counting