Word Up is a multi-language, general-interest community bookshop, art, and music space in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan in NYC.
Our website may look different, but our online store is still fully stocked with vibrant, diverse books. Support our mission by shopping with us!
Your purchases directly fund our community programs and help us continue to provide vital resources and services to our Upper Manhattan community.
We want everyone to have access to a diverse range of arts and literature that reflects their values and voices.
Our dynamic programs inspire and empower the youth in our community, fostering creativity and growth.
Our initiatives are deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice and creating a fair and inclusive society.
We organize a variety of workshops and events that cater to diverse interests and promote cultural understanding.
We proudly support and showcase local artists and authors, providing a platform to share their work with the community.
Word Up Community Bookshop is a safe and welcoming space where everyone is encouraged to learn, grow, and connect.
Our youth programs empower young minds through author visits, hands-on activities, and field trips, inspiring creativity and growth.
Engage in enriching discussions, connect with fellow readers, and explore new perspectives and genres with one of our book clubs.
Participate in our annual book fairs to discover a wide selection of books, support local authors, and celebrate the joy of reading.
Help us nourish our community through The People’s Fridge, a mutual aid project providing free food to anyone in need.
From health and wellness events to book and clothing drives, our community initiatives foster a supportive and connected neighborhood.
Celebrating a new memoir by Buunni Coffee co-founder Sarina Prabasi!
Matthew A. Cherry presents his ode to loving your natural hair!
Longtime residents visually interpret changes to Upper Manhattan.
Octavio Solis discusses his new book that channels his youth in El Paso, TX.
Your donation to Word Up Community Bookshop helps us continue to provide vital resources, empowering programs, and a welcoming space for all in Washington Heights!
Supporting Word Up ensures we can keep promoting literacy, cultural diversity, and community engagement. Make a donation today!
Join our dedicated team of volunteers at Word Up Community Bookshop and make a meaningful difference in Washington Heights!
Whether you’d like to try out a weekly shift at the store, are up for grant writing, have tech skills to share, or like working with kids, there are lots of ways to help out.
We’re always interested to collaborate with schools and other community-based organizations to create impactful events and community projects that enrich the lives of our Upper Manhattan neighbors.
Together, we can foster educational growth, celebrate cultural diversity, and build a more connected community.
We’ve circulated over 420,000 books reflecting the interests and voices of those in our community and beyond.
Tens of thousands of community members have attended our more than 2,460 diverse, multi-cultural events.