It adds a whole new meaning to reading before bed: To mark World Book Day, St Paul’s Cathedral is opening its hidden library for a once-in-a-lifetime overnight stay.

On March 15, two guests will be able to stay for a night in a “secret” room at this historic London landmark. This is the first time anyone has officially slept in the cathedral since World War II, when a volunteer group protected the cathedral from bombing raids.

During their stay, guests will enter the cathedral through the Dean’s Gate and ascend the spiral staircase designed by British architect Sir Christopher Wren more than 300 years ago.

At the top of the stairs is the newly restored library, which dates from 1709 and houses more than 22,000 written texts, ranging from medieval manuscripts to the earliest printed books to soon-to-be-published books.

Accommodation includes a welcome ceremony by the Dean, a visit to the cathedral and dinner at a nearby restaurant.

The next morning, after breakfast, guests will receive signed and stamped copies of as-yet-unpublished books – including Holly Jackson’s The Reappearance of Rachel Price and John Grisham’s Camino Ghosts” – before ending their stay by climbing up to the famous dome.

Sandra Lynes Timbrell, the cathedral’s director of visitor engagement, said: “The recently restored St Paul’s Library has long been the cathedral’s secret gem – masterfully engineered by Sir Christopher Wren Cleverly hidden.

“Some very lucky guests will now have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the history and wonder of St. Paul through this truly unique stay.”

The visit costs £7 per night and can be booked via Airbnb, with booking requests opening at 10am on March 12.

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Amanda Cupples, general manager of Airbnb Nordics, said the company was “delighted” to open the library’s doors to bookworms, history buffs and those looking for a unique experience in the capital.

“Partnering with Airbnb is a true celebration of readers in the most magical way,” said Alyssa Castaneda, director of brand strategy at Penguin Random House US.

“From exploring the cathedral’s secret corners and ascending its famous dome to reading upcoming titles from Penguin Random House USA, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is straight out of a fairy tale.”