Happy National Book Lovers Day! Whether you’re cracking open a new book during your commute, listening to an audiobook in one of our beautiful parks, or exploring your local library’s many free programs, there are so many ways to celebrate National Book Lovers Day—especially in a top city for book lovers like ours.
Celebrate our mutual love of literacy by visiting your local branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, New York Public Library, or Queens Public Library.
Staff Favorites for National Book Lovers Day
Below, team members share recent favorites from their book shelves, including books to make you ponder, strengthen your self-care, or dive deep into local and national politics.
Rooted: The American Legacy of Land Theft and the Modern Movement for Black Land Ownership - Brea Baker
Recommended by Mirielle Clifford, Deputy Digital Media Director
“Rooted is a powerful exploration of the relationship between property and political power. In this thoughtful, moving book, Baker shares why land ownership must be an important component of reparations in America, for the sake of climate justice.”
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Mark Manson
Recommended by Nathaniel Evans, Community Organizer, Justice & Safety
“A counterintuitive approach to living a good life. Focus on you is a priceless thing to do.”
Don't Let It Happen - Eric L. Adams
Recommended by Gwen Saffran, Senior Policy & Legislative Associate
Our current mayor is also an author, and this book is an interesting addition to the New York City archives.
Ideas to Postpone the End of the World - Ailton Krenak
Recommended by Luiza Teixeira-Vesey, Digital Marketing Specialist
“From droughts, to extreme heat, to poisonous smoke, NYC keeps reminding us that climate change is here and the time to act is now. This is a book about not falling into despair, but drawing from indigenous knowledge to dream a better world.”
Black Robes, White Justice: Why Our Legal System Doesn't Work for Blacks - Bruce Wright
Recommended by Gina Williams, Community Affairs Advocate
“This is the most controversial book of all time, bringing awareness to the abuse of power in the legal system and the injustice towards people of color. Judge Wright opens the minds of the legal injustice in systems.”
Exciting news to close this chapter: Thanks to the New York City Council and the tireless efforts of advocates (read: don’t cross book lovers), more library locations will once again offer weekend and seven-day library service starting in September, after previous budget cuts. We’ll keep fighting to expand access to well-funded public libraries throughout the boroughs, and banish the literacy gap in our city.
Photo Credit: Office of the Public Advocate at Brooklyn Bodega
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