Bronx Children's Museum Introduces First Children's Bookshop in the Bronx

June 4th Event Celebrates Launch of Book Bodega at the Bronx Children’s Museum

Bronx, NY — On June 4, 2024, the Bronx Children's Museum (BxCM) unveiled the Book Bodega Exhibit, heralding the arrival of the Bronx's first children's bookshop. In response to the Bronx's persistently low literacy rates, the Book Bodega represents the Bronx Children’s Museum’s significant effort to address this disparity by providing children with convenient access to a diverse selection of books.

The shop, playfully decorated with artwork by Bronx-born author and award-winning illustrator Charles Esperanza, showcases an extensive array of children's literature that reflects the museum's commitment to representation.

The highlight of the event featured the release of the much-anticipated children's book, "Cesaria Feels the Beat" by the Museum’s Executive Director, Denise Rosario Adusei, shining a light on the Bronx's need for accessible literary resources. "We are thrilled to introduce the first functional bookshop exhibit to the Bronx, a pivotal moment in our ongoing mission to ensure that every child in our community has fair access to literature that mirrors their experiences and aspirations," she commented. "The 'Cesaria Feels the Beat' book release adds an extra layer of magic to this occasion, and we look forward to sharing it with our young visitors."

Children and their caregivers entered the brightly colored bookshop with a look of awe, recognizing some of their favorite titles read during story time at the Museum available on the shelves. Books, including "The Bronx is My Home" by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, were distributed free of charge during the event. "Boogie Boogie Ya'll" by artist Esperanza and “Soul Food Sunday,” for which he was recognized with the Coretta Scott King Award, are both available in the bookshop. The selection of books was curated by Museum Program Director Jessica Jackson. 

The Book Bodega is made possible through the partnership and support of The United Way of New York City, who is committed to addressing the fact that 70 percent of third-grade students in The South Bronx are unable to read at their grade level.

Representatives from the United Way were present, highlighting the collective effort to promote literacy, book ownership and community engagement in the Bronx. 

The Book Bodega will be open to ticketed visitors during regular Museum hours, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. 

The Bronx Children's Museum remains steadfast in its commitment to inspiring children and families through immersive exhibits, educational initiatives, and community-driven activities.

Press Coverage:

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