Used Book Cafe : Rent Our Space

The Housing Works Used Book Cafe was designed to have a classic library look, with mahogany-paneled balconies, spiral staircases, and matching heavy display tables and shelves. The four original pillars, showing off the twenty-foot ceilings, remind visitors they're in what was once a warehouse. Under the balcony are cozy alcoves where customers can sit and read in overstuffed armchairs while they drink their coffee and relax.

Every day customers tell us how beautiful our store is, and how happy they are to have found such a peaceful oasis in the middle of one of the busiest shopping districts in the city.

Our store has attracted the eye of many film and TV location scouts. So far, we've been the host of several film shoots (a few of our alums include John Cusack, Ed Burns, Heather Graham, and Jamie Foxx), an AT&T commercial featuring Paul Reiser, print advertising for Entertainment Weekly, and a PSA promoting Independent Bookstores. Japanese and German magazines have used photos of our store in articles about shopping in Soho, and we have been included in several travel guides.

More frequently though, the UBC is the site of parties for New York City's literary community, when they celebrate book releases or hold holiday parties. The New Yorker rents our space twice a year, Harper's holds their holiday parties and fundraisers here, and Poets & Writers and PEN American Center rent our space regularly. Our store has also been rented for the annual meeting of New York Booksellers who belong to the ABA, and for wedding receptions and birthday parties.

To inquire about holding your party or event at the Housing Works Used Book Café, please call us at (212) 966-0466, Ext. 1104 or send us an email. Housing Works can also provide catering for your special event through our catering company. We look forward to creating a memorable event for you and your friends. Call us!