**This historic library in the heart of Bangkok has always been inspired and managed by women **
Writer: By Yvonne Bohwongprasert
Published: 6/09/2009 at 12:00 AM
Newspaper section: Brunch
The Neilson Hays Library is a stylish neo-classical edifice built in memory of Jennie Neilson Hays, an American missionary, who died unexpectedly in 1920. Dr Thomas Hays had the library built as a memorial to his wife, who was a great lover of literature.
Located on Surawong Road, since 1922 the library has opened its doors to Bangkok residents who appreciate reading English-language books. Most of the reading material was either purchased or donated by the expatriate community in Bangkok. The library offers avid readers a wide selection of more than 25,000 books, ranging from the latest adult fiction and non-fiction to children’s stories.
There is also a large section on Thailand and Southeast Asia. In 1986 this single storey building, which was used as living quarters for Japanese soldiers during World War Two, was officially awarded the status of an historical landmark of Bangkok by the Association of Siamese Architects, which is under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
Despite its being visually reminiscent of another century, the library is fitted with an up-to-date cataloguing system, with the latest periodicals and books added monthly to its growing lists.
The architectural highlights of the building include the central hall with its high domed roof, a feature that is replicated on the two wings.
In the roomy entrance hall is a marble tablet that states that the building was erected by Dr Hays as a memorial to his wife.
Since its inception the Neilson Hays Library has been managed by women. The board is made up of 12 volunteers, all women, as stipulated in the library’s constitution.
Upon visiting the library one can’t help but pay tribute to the first generation of expatriate women who had the vision and dedication to create the literary refuge the library stands for today, to serve the needs of the community of book lovers seeking shelter from the hustle and bustle of the present day Surawong area.
The history of the Neilson Hays Library itself is as enchanting as the books on its shelves. It is a matter of record that during the occupation of Thailand, library books, records and blueprints of the building were shipped to Japan. After the war ended, the library was able to retrieve about 800 volumes. However, vital information such as the identity of the architect of the building was temporarily lost, and only came to light when the Italian Embassy in Bangkok printed a book on Italian contributions to Thailand to mark the embassy’s 100th anniversary. The book confirmed that Mario Tamagno was the architect.
The library re-opened to the public in 1947, and over the intervening years it has evolved into a social hub for the entire family. One of the most popular fun activities for children from ages two to seven is Saturday storytelling, proceeded by an arts and crafts session. For adults there are used book sales, talks by authors, book launches, musical evenings and art fairs.
In September there is a solo art exhibition by painter Nattee Thitikanaariyakij which runs to the end of the month. New visitors to Bangkok might be interested in the social orientation programme to be held on Sept 23 by Sarah Allen, who has lived in Thailand for 15 years. On Oct 6 there will be be a talk by travel writer and novelist Paul Theroux.
A stone’s throw away from the library is the Garden Gallery and Cafe - a cosy place to chill out after a hard day’s work and check out a borrowed book over a cup of tea and a fresh muffin.
Bron: Bangkok Post / www.bangkokpost.com