Not-for-profit bookshop cum cafe with free Wi-Fi

by Melanie Berliet

At this branch of Housing Works, the treasures are used books and records rather than the antique furniture and designer frocks found at its sister shops. With several tables and a few comfy leather chairs, it’s an ideal place for casual cafe-goers and bargain hunters alike. Scan the shelves, or bring your laptop to do some work while enjoying reasonably priced coffees and a slice of quiche or a cookie. As an added incentive to make a purchase, all profits go to the Housing Works organization, which provides shelter, health care and other services to homeless New Yorkers living with HIV and AIDS.

08/28/08

Soho's preferred not-for-profit bookshop supports a good cause, and it's an escape from the crazed shopping elsewhere in the neighborhood.

by Contributor

The Scene
The Housing Works thrift shops are some of the city's best-kept secrets for clothing and furniture seekers, but you won't find that Pucci frock or antique dresser at this branch. Instead, discover a decent selection of books and records, plus comfy chairs, cute fellow browsers and a cafe that's one of the best bargains in the neighborhood. If you still need a reason to go, the store hosts live music and readings.

The Goods
While this shop is no Strand, you stand a good chance of nabbing a recent bestseller for a fraction of the going rate, or picking up a paperback classic. Vinyl is plentiful, if loosely organized. The best part? All the profits go to the Housing Works organization which provides shelter, health care and other services for homeless New Yorkers living with HIV and AIDS.

09/26/06

Cozy

by evilkitty51

The word to describe the cafe bookstore would be cozy. The staff consiste of vounteers and actually paid workers. The volunteers might not know everything but they do try their hardest to help and the cafe in the back is a nice touch to the place. the things are rather cheap and the people their friendly. The prices for the books aren't bad too not to mention they have bookfairs once a year with insane prices.

• Pros: quiet, friendly
• Cons: can't bring your bags in (bag check in)

11/18/05

The best bookstore in NYC!

by judypardo

At Housing Works Book Cafe you can browse, read, have a light meal or dessert, attend a reading or music event - and all the money you spend there goes to support homeless people with AIDS. The store is super relaxed, run almost completely by volunteers, and a great place to hang out. There are thousands of books, organized in the usual categories, at great discount prices - half of the retail or less. Also LPs and CDs and tapes and comics. I love this place!

• Pros: Great Selection, Relaxed atmosphere, Low prices

10/18/05

Shhhhhh!

by trescrepu

Despite consistently disappointing latte's, I love this place. Keep it a secret.. a reviewer of another local spot put it right when they said "...stay away if you are not from the neighborhood. We don't want you here."

01/02/05

Housing Works Used Book Cafe

by emle33854

I love to spend hours here studying or reading, and once in a while, I find an interesting book. The selection isn't the greatest, but you can't beat the cause. The atmosphere is so cozy, although sometimes it's hard to find a seat.

• Pros: for a good cause, atmosphere