Bookstore Spotlight: Got Libros? La Casa Azul Bookstore

Mural-painted steps
mariachi band played upon

A youth mariachi band was the first thing I saw and heard when I got off the 6 train at Lexington and 103rd Street to attend the grand opening of La Casa Azul Bookstore on Friday evening. A large crowd swelled at the entrance of East Harlem's new bookstore, watching the performers, drinking wine, and chatting.

Outdoor stage area

Begun with the help of a fundraising campaign the store carries adult and children's books, in both Spanish and English, with an emphasis on local and Latino authors. There is also a nice selection of cards, stickers and other gift items, including rings made from telephone wire that I couldn't resist buying.

Inside the store, I made my way through the throngs of people shopping and chatting and posing for photos (using fun props provided by the store) and checked out the backyard area, which seems perfectly primed for performances and large groups.