For all of you fellow bookworms, writers, and aspiring novelists out there, November 1 is National Author’s Day. Unlike National Twinkies Day or National Buy a Donut Day (I’m serious, such a day exists), this actually means something to me. The idea came from Nellie Verne Burt McPherson, the president of the Bement Women’s Club of Illinois in 1928. She was a teacher and avid reader who wrote a fan letter to writer Irving Bacheller, who in return sent her an autographed copy of one of his stories. Realizing that she could never adequately thank him, McPherson submitted the idea for National Author’s Day to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. By 1949, the day was officially recognized by the U. S. Department of Commerce.
Since McPherson’s death in 1968, her granddaughter Sue Cole carries on her legacy and urges people to write a note to their favorite author on this day in order to “brighten up the sometimes lonely business of being a writer.” As a novelist-in-progress myself (I don’t dare to refer to myself as an author until my literary agent actually lands me that book deal, fingers crossed), I thought of another great way to celebrate the men and women that go to such great lengths to create literature for us to read and enjoy. If the mood strikes, you should venture out to one of these literary-themed spots located in and around Los Angeles:
Library Bar
With stacks of leather-bound tomes, well-stocked bookshelves and cozy seating, this place is true to its name. After ordering from an extensive list of wine and beer, sit yourself down next to one of the fake fireplaces and grab a book off one of the shelves (yes, the books are real). It feels like you’re in a private study, when in reality you’re actually in a bar on 6th street in the heart of downtown.
Hemingway’s Lounge
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to hang out in the late author’s lair, look no further. This exclusive lounge is located just steps away from Hollywood Boulevard and offers a feast for the visual senses, from antique chandeliers, vintage furniture, impressionist art and an impressive collection of over ten thousand books that are housed in the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. Perhaps even more impressive are the vintage typewriters, each containing a sheet of paper that features a different Hemingway quote.
The Writer’s Room
For a mellow and intimate speakeasy-style bar experience, this joint features various nooks and crannies where you can let your guard down and listen to music from the 1920s. This was previously known as ‘The The Back Room,” and allegedly F. Scott Fitzgerald and Raymond Chandler used to come here and toss back a few drinks before pounding away at their latest literary masterpiece. With the entrance located in the back parking lot, this bar has a secretive feel to it – perfect for tortured artists and writers alike that just want to get away from it all – along with everyone else.
