HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH 2024: NYC'S last Spanish-language bookstore, Librería Barco de Papel, remains a cultural hub in Queens

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – Librería Barco de Papel, a nonprofit bookstore and cultural center, is the last remaining Spanish-language bookstore in New York City, located just steps from the bustling Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, Queens.

Founded in 2003 by Ramón Caraballo, the bookstore has become a beloved cultural hub for the neighborhood. The store operates as a community space rather than just a business, under the leadership of current program director, Paula Ortiz.

"This place is just proof that we are resilient," Ortiz told 1010 WINS. Originally starting as a humble book stand beneath the elevated 7 train, the bookstore has grown into a vital part of the community, preserving the Spanish language not only in conversation but in its written form. "We’re keeping a language alive," Ortiz said.

The bookstore serves children, artists, and recently arrived Latino immigrants. Ortiz explained that the bookstore’s programming evolved in response to the community’s needs. "Adults started asking us, ‘Great, we bring the kids, but when are you going to do activities for adults?’" Ortiz said. This led to the creation of open mic nights and expanded cultural events for all ages.

In 2024, Librería Barco de Papel was named the winner of the 1010 WINS Small Business $10K Challenge. "We’re happy to have received the 1010 WINS grant, which helps us continue our cultural programming," Ortiz said.

For more about the bookstore, listen to Paula Ortiz’s interview above with anchor Mario Bósquez.