The Brooklyn Navy Yard is home to an inspiring initiative known as the Brooklyn Book Bodega, which aims to make books as readily available as snacks from a neighborhood store.

Co-founders Rebecca Cogen and Seema Aghera chose the name “Bodega” with intention.

“When you think of bodegas in New York, you think of a place that is familiar, a place where people come together,” said Aghera.

“Books should have been as accessible as your neighborhood bodega,” added Cohen.

This nonprofit, grassroots organization is actively working to eliminate “book deserts,” neighborhoods where book ownership is scarce.

“Our mission is to increase the number of 100-plus book homes for kids in New York City,” said Aghera.

Through the distribution of free, gently-used books, the organization seeks to ensure every child, no matter their family’s financial capacity, has access to transformative stories.

“Our mission is driven by the fact that reading benefits children’s lives significantly. It improves their academic success, future income potential, and mental well-being,” said Aghera.

Brooklyn Book Bodega distributes free books through pop-up events and community partnerships.

Aghera noted, “Our strategy involves being present where children commonly gather,” highlighting the nonprofit’s dedication to making books easily reachable and engaging with community spaces.

Volunteers are essential to their operations, aiding with the examination, sorting, and allocation of books at their Book Hub. Each book is distinctively stamped, allowing children to personalize them with their names as personal possessions.

“There is still so much work to do,” said Aghera.”If we all worked together, we could make a change.”

Brooklyn Book Bodega encourages New Yorkers to get involved through donating used books, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.

For more information, visit their website.