The warm and inviting atmosphere of Greenlight Bookstore, a community hub in Brooklyn.
Greenlight Bookstore has been voted the most popular small business in New York, according to a recent poll by Advanced Funds Network. Founded in 2009, this Brooklyn-based bookstore has developed a loyal customer base by offering a carefully curated selection of books and community-focused events. With a commitment to inclusivity and engagement, the store is making strides in labor relations and is a hub for local literary activities. It has an extensive social media presence and continues to thrive despite challenges, capturing the essence of what makes small businesses vital to their communities.
Brooklyn, NY – Greenlight Bookstore has been voted New York’s most popular small business in a recent poll conducted by Advanced Funds Network. The survey, which garnered responses from 3,014 individuals regarding small businesses they would travel over an hour to visit, revealed Greenlight as the clear favorite, demonstrating significant appeal across both the borough and state.
Founded in 2009, Greenlight Bookstore has built a strong community presence and established a loyal customer base. Known for its carefully curated selection of books and the knowledgeable staff who provide insightful recommendations, the bookstore has become a cherished destination for literature enthusiasts. The store manager highlighted the importance of offering diverse recommendations to represent various demographics, signifying a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
Greenlight Bookstore is not just about selling books; it actively engages the community through numerous events and activities. The store features a staff-created display that changes monthly, highlighting themes like poetry or events tied to current performances, such as Paul Mescal’s role in “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Additionally, the bookstore hosts events like author discussions and workshops, further enriching the local cultural landscape.
Jessica Stockton Bagnulo, the store owner, plays a significant role in promoting neighborhood activities. She organizes the annual Brooklyn Bookstore Crawl, which brings together local bookstores, and creative neighborhood initiatives like the “Where’s Waldo?” search. These events strengthen ties within the community and encourage locals to explore their literary scene.
A standout in Greenlight’s lineup of upcoming events includes a discussion with author Katie Kitamura at the Brooklyn Public Library and a visit from acclaimed poet Ocean Vuong on May 14. Furthermore, Greenlight fosters a love for reading among younger generations through its Young Reader Reviewer Program, designed for readers under 14 to review advanced reader copies of upcoming books.
Greenlight Bookstore is also making strides in labor relations, recently ratifying a new three-year contract with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). The contract comprises an 11% wage increase over three years, new paid holidays, and provisions for rolling over unused paid time off. Introduced “safe scheduling” regulations will provide more predictable working hours for staff. This agreement reflects a broader trend of increased union activity within the bookselling industry, as RWDSU Local 1102 advocates for bookstore workers throughout New York City.
The contract is anticipated to reduce turnover rates and enhance employment opportunities within Greenlight, yielding benefits for both employees and the community. A buyer at Greenlight and union steward commented on the potential positive impact of the agreement on the workforce and the store’s overall operation.
In addition to its recognition as the most popular small business in the poll, Greenlight Bookstore was closely followed by Boxstar Press, a print shop from Syracuse, NY, which claimed the runner-up position. This acknowledgment underlines the deep emotional connections that individuals forge with their favorite small businesses, emphasizing the vital role such establishments play in their communities.
Greenlight Bookstore has a significant digital presence, boasting approximately 37,000 followers on Instagram. Though the store previously operated a location in Prospect Heights, it closed in 2023 due to rising operational costs, yet it continues to thrive in its current setting, further solidifying its reputation as a key player in New York’s independent bookstore landscape.
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