Books Unite Our Community

The Neighborhood Book Peddler exists to make books freely available throughout the community. We believe literature should function as a shared public good, not something shaped by cost, distance, or circumstance. Our work focuses on increasing direct access to books by making them available in public spaces and offering them freely to anyone who wishes to read.

The project launched with its first community giveaway in January 2026 and has since hosted five free book giveaways across New Orleans. Through these events, more than 400 books have been placed directly into the hands of readers of all ages. Our gatherings create welcoming spaces where community members can discover new stories, connect with one another, and build a deeper relationship with reading.

Through grassroots support and book donations, we continue to grow our collection and expand our reach. Beginning in August 2026, The Neighborhood Book Peddler will launch new literacy centered programming in neighborhoods across the city, including free book giveaways, author events, storytelling experiences, and community partnerships designed to celebrate the power of literature and make reading more accessible to all.

Our long term goals include increasing the number of mobile book units serving neighborhoods across New Orleans, strengthening partnerships with schools, shelters, and community organizations, and establishing a permanent public space dedicated to free access to literature.