Originally founded in 2021 by Latanya Devaughn, Bronx Bound Books boasts a unique concept — a traveling bookstore. Inside what was previously used as a shuttle bus, is now thousands of new and used books for sale.
A cozy interior filled with bright orange shelves and what customers describe as the smell of “home,” this bookmobile travels throughout the Bronx borough with the overarching goal of literacy and book ownership for all. Specifically, the company aims to increase the literacy rates of children living within the Bronx community.
This bookstore on wheels travels all throughout the Bronx, stopping at schools, shelters, churches and even farmers’ markets. The company does so in hopes of making “book buying affordable and accessible to every corner of the Bronx and beyond.” The business regularly gives back to the Bronx community through additional means such as book drives for donations, storytelling for children and workshops for families.
Bronx Bound Books believes in “the transformative power of reading and the importance of accessible book ownership. [Its] curated selection is a mix of genres and voices, celebrating diversity and fostering a love for literature across all ages.”
Even Fordham students can get involved with Bronx Bound Books’ mission. The Fordham Business Development Collaboratory (FBDC) is a consulting club on campus that provides Fordham students with the ability to enhance the development of local businesses, primarily through efforts in marketing and outreach. FBDC first began working with Bronx Bound Books in the fall 2023 semester.
FBDC plans to host Bronx Bound Books later this semester for an on-campus business fair. Students will be encouraged to donate books to Bronx Bound Books to help give back to the greater Bronx community.
Sabrina Khanali, GSB ’26, an executive director of FBDC, is responsible for communicating with Bronx Bound Books and the greater executive board of the club, as well as planning the various projects that the club works on with Bronx Bound Books throughout each semester.
Khanali reflected on her favorite memory from working with Bronx Bound Books. In the fall 2023, she visited a Bronx Bound Books kiosk inside the Bay Plaza mall. She recalled seeing lots of children and families enjoying the “Author Day” event. “It was such a pleasure to experience our client’s environment and see the impact they make on their community,” she said.
Another member of the FBDC, Michael Lynch, GSB ’26, shared his experience working with Bronx Bound Books. According to Lynch, it was Bronx Bound Books’ mission that initially drew his attention. “It is imperative to make books more accessible, especially in underserved communities that lack these resources,” he said.
Lynch’s responsibilities primarily include strategizing ways for the company to enhance its social media presence and marketing strategy. Some examples include pursuing partnerships with local schools and other bookstores for a Bronx Bound Books collaboration.
When asked what his favorite part of working with Bronx Bound Books, Lynch responded that he enjoys working with a tight-knit group of like-minded individuals who are collectively passionate about supporting the business and its overall mission. He also cited that it’s extremely worthwhile to see how the FBDC’s contributions have had a positive impact on Bronx Bound Books as a company.
“I firmly believe that Fordham students should integrate themselves within the Bronx community more, especially supporting businesses with commendable initiatives like Bronx Bound Books,” said Lynch.
Khanali added, “In addition to directly making an impact to help improve the business, students gain real-world experience in the areas of business development and consulting, which is great to put on resumes and talk about in interviews.”
There are many ways for Fordham students who are interested to get involved with Bronx Bound Books. Students can follow Bronx Bound Books on Instagram and Facebook (@BronxBoundBooks) to learn more about upcoming events and stops of the bookmobile.
For students looking for a more hands-on experience in working alongside Bronx Bound Books, they can join the FBDC by signing up at the club fairs held each semester on campus, or by visiting the Social Innovation Collaboratory room located on the second floor of the Hughes building on campus.
To learn more about FBDC, students can visit their Instagram page (@FordhamFBDC) or reach out to [email protected].
