a multilayer tray system especially for a hospital bed having side rails includes a first rectangular structure having hooks along each lateral edge for being supported on the top edge of the side rails , the first rectangular structure has cavities formed in the upper surface for disposition of such items as a tissue box , drinking glass or miscellaneous items . a second rectangular tray is selectively connected to the first rectangular support . the second tray has a planar upper surface for providing a writing surface thereon . the tray is aligned relative to the rectangular structure and slidably maintained on the rectangular structure by means of a pair of parallel brackets extending from the lower surface of the tray .