READ NYC

Program elements:
A custom-designed cart that rolls into place and unfolds to reveal books, with benches for seating. (Our first reading room relied on a system of cubes, and that structure is still in use. See Design.)
High-quality books (300+ in each cart), drawn from the Uni Project’s collection and curated for each location. Books in the Uni don’t circulate. We’re not a book swap, and we’re not a lending library. The point is not to take books home and read in private. We want people to read them together, in public, and be seen reading. That’s why we choose books that work well for browsing: short fiction, art books, poetry, and lots of picture books. And because we watch over the books, we offer high-quality, unusual, and even fragile books, like pop-up titles. We want to put out what you wouldn’t expect in public space. And we find that a little trust goes a long way with our patrons. To be engaging, some of the collection is also organized into a series of mini-collections curated by individuals or organizations who have a real passion or expertise about a topic. Explore our collection.
Mini book reviews, created by fellow New Yorkers. You can write a mini book review and post it on the side of the READ cart. Book reviewers take home instant photos of themselves holding their favorite book at the Uni.
Participation by local libraries and other NYC organizations and institutions, featuring books and other material that has either been donated or loaned for the day.
Uni staff and volunteers to facilitate and read aloud, as needed.
How you can help Your support helps us take READ NYC to New York neighborhoods. Make a donation here. Or, donate books. Visit our wish list at Strand Bookstore. We love bilingual and international titles. We also accept used books in the categories above. Uni Book Donation Policy. Contact Leslie Davol.

READ NYC is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
READ NYC FOUNDING SPONSORS
Susanne Beck and Billy Parker, Daniel Handler and Lisa Brown, Leaves of Grass Fund, Sam and Esme Lee, Karen and Daniel Taylor