The Library






Monday5:00 – 11:00 pm.
Tuesday5:00 pm – 12:00 am.
Wednesday5:00 pm – 12:00 am.
Thursday5:00 pm – 12:00 am.
Friday4:00 pm – 1:00 am.
Saturday4:00 pm – 1:00 am.
Sunday5:00 – 11:00 pm.
Hidden behind an unassuming ground floor entrance, The Library is another well-known establishment that overlooks the go-go crowd of Courtenay Place. It’s what’s on the inside that counts however, as is immediately apparent upon entering. The dark wooden interior is healthily endowed with books of every size, shape and subject making this bar about as educated and rum-soaked as Hemingway’s beard.
Patrons are usually seated by the welcoming staff, so it pays to call in advance if you’re coming with the circus in tow. Wherever you end up there’s an assortment of tables, booths and elegant old couches to slide into. More speakeasy than bar or public library, it’s fitting that they haven’t skimped on the reading material, let alone the booze.
From cognac to dessert wine, port and sherry to single malts, and some rarer treats – it’s a safe bet the Library will have your poison of choice at hand. The infamous Drunken Pirates Tropical Grog is most definitely worth a courageous dab, though it’s limited to three per person per evening, which is just as well for the sake of wallet and head the next morning.
Not to be missed is this bibliothèque’s collection of cheeses and sweet ‘n savoury delicacies. The beef bourguignon pastries are a stand-out, best chased with the Earl Grey Crème Brûlée or a rum-infused hot chocolate. Tuesday is one step further from Monday, and a good night to take advantage of two-for-one desserts. Wednesday is looking even better with two-for-one cocktails. Tell them you’ll be at the Library.
Words by Matt Paterson & Photography by Naomi Haussmann
See more Wellington:
Information not correct?
Report an error
Near The Library

GOOD BOOKS
2/16 Jessie Street, Te Aro
Down the side of an industrial building on Jessie Street, a warm glow emanates from a glass shopfront.

Sweet Mother's Kitchen
5 Courtenay Place, Te Aro
An old school, eclectic and slightly ramshackle American-style diner.

Egmont Street Eatery
11 Egmont Street, Te Aro
Leeds Street may be leading Wellington's hidden heritage revival, but brick-lined Egmont might be in line to carve a niche for itself, if this elegant eatery is anything to go by.

Goldie Milkbar & Eatery
75 Taranaki Street, Te Aro
One step through the door at Goldie Milkbar & Eatery and you’ll immediately confirm what you’ve likely heard through the grapevine … there really is no other eatery quite like it.