How One Woman Saved a Community's Reading Culture

Something shifted in the Bronx when Ms. Noelle Santos began to ask herself this one powerful question: what am I going to do about it?

As the New Year approaches, many of us are already crafting resolutions — and for a lot of people, “READ MORE!” is right at the top of the list. It’s a common goal, but how many of us actually follow through? Some succeed, others try, and some forget all about it by?January 2nd.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about human behaviour, it’s this:?accessibility matters.?Making things more accessible can often be the difference between success and missed opportunities.

That’s why today’s spotlight woman, No?lle Santos felt such a sense of urgency when, in 2014, she discovered that the only bookstore in the Bronx was about to shut down.

For No?lle Santos , that bookstore was more than just a place to buy books; it was a gateway to knowledge and imagination, something she had cherished since childhood. The thought of young people in her community growing up without that same access struck a deep chord.

At first, she joined others in signing a petition to keep the store open. And while the petition succeeded in extending the bookstore’s lease for?two more years, it wasn’t enough. Eventually, the store closed its doors for good.

Instead of giving up, Noelle decided to take matters into her own hands.?She volunteered to work for free at bookstores in Brooklyn, determined to learn everything about the business. She rolled up her sleeves and turned her frustration into action.

Finally, on?April 27th, 2019, her vision became reality: The Lit Bar opened its doors. A bookstore, wine bar, and community space all rolled into one.?

Today,?Noelle's The?Lit Bar?remains the only bookstore in the Bronx to this day.

Takeaway for me:

Noelle’s story is a powerful reminder that when you see a problem in your community, especially one that truly bothers you, it might just be a sign to ask yourself: So what am I going to do about it? Thanks, Noelle!

Question for you:?

What problem in your community keeps you up at night, and what are you going to do about it??

Book of the Week

Please Don’t Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes?by Phoebe Robinson.

It’s a witty and thought-provoking collection of essays that examines life through the lens of a Black woman. Topics range from the lack of Black women in leadership roles to performative allyship in activism to the high cost of prioritising mental health. It’s an entertaining yet profound read that you’ll thoroughly enjoy.

Video of the week

Looking for some inspiration? Watch?Quinta Brunson’s TED Talk, "I Like Myself, America, and You Can’t Stop Me." It’s an empowering reminder that no one else has the right to define your limitations.

?Affirmation of the Week

?And now, my favourite part: our weekly affirmation.

Say this out loud and let it guide you through the week:?

"My world begins to change when I make the decision to step out and take action.Today, I WILL do more than just dream or worry. I will take the first step and create the change I want to see."        

Believe it. Mean it. Let it be your motivation as you move forward.

Have a fantastic week!

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