Cultivate Bronx Readers

Cultivate Bronx Readers is a campaign launched by The Bronx is Reading that is focused on showcasing the vibrant readers of the Bronx. We’re here, we exist despite the many socio-economic disadvantages and lack of resource challenges that individuals face in the Bronx. Everyone knows the narrative of the Bronx being “poor”, of the Bronx being a “book desert.” And yet we continue to thrive, to bloom–this campaign will highlight just how much readers in the Bronx are book lovers, how the seed for reading was planted within them, how it has blossomed over the years, and how they are paying it forward to cultivate the next generation of readers.

We're thrilled to collaborate with YMPJ to activate the Soundview Economic Hub which will be known as "Under the Bruckner Expressway" and in partnership with Wilde Flowers & Books, and Tumas Books we plan to host a lovely celebration of literacy in the Bronx by the Bronx.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

11:30 AM - Attendees Arrive  

12:00 NOON - Event begins 

12:30 PM - “Cultivate Bronx Readers ” Remarks

12:45 PM - Read Aloud

1:00 PM -3:00 PM - Arts & Craft Inspired by Read Aloud, + Vendor Activations

1:00 PM-3:00 PM - Seed & Read Program hosted by Wilde Flowers & Books

1:00 PM-3:00 PM - Diverse Reads resources hosted by Tumas Books

ABOUT UNDER THE BRUCKNER PRESENTED BY YMPJ

YMPJ is embarking on an ambitious project to activate the public space under the Bruckner Expressway on Bronx River Ave.This space will be called the Under the Bruckner and serve as a small business incubator and showcase for local Bronx businesses and community members.

ABOUT THE BRONX IS READING 

The Bronx is Reading is a social good venture and brand founded by social entrepreneur, Bronx native and Black Honduran author Saraciea J. Fennell. Our mission is to promote literacy and foster a love of reading among children, teens, and adults in the Bronx. We empower the next generation of readers and writers through our multidimensional initiatives, such as our annual Bronx Book Festival, Bookworm Book Festival, Literacy Program, monthly book club. Sales from our online and pop-up bookstore keeps our programming free, and supports our nonprofit arm to provide school programs for author visits, and book clubs. For more information visit thebronxisreading.com and follow us on social @thebronxisreading. 

ABOUT WILDE FLOWERS & BOOKS 

Wilde provides a curated book selection that represents the diversity, languages, and spirit of The Bronx. Together we can unlock the equity gaps surrounding literacy, such as lack of access to book ownership, eyecare and free glasses, and safe green spaces to enjoy and read in. Wilde events provide a space for the whole family to gather and enjoy books and nature.

ABOUT TUMAS BOOKS 

is an NYC based online & pop-up bookstore offering diverse books that represent the beautiful cultural identities, traditions, and experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) that you likely may not discover on your own. We are considerate of whose stories are unrepresented or silenced and offer them front and center for diverse readers. Visit our website to shop our current Monthly Diverse Reads subscription titles,  Mystery Diverse Reads or Blind Date with a Book, New & Bargain Books from our in-store stock, merchandise, gifts sourced from other BIPOC businesses, and more at .

Host or Publisher The Bronx is Reading