Bronx Library Center
310 East Kingsbridge Road
Fourth Floor
Bronx, NY 10458
718-579-2425
Directions
Fully Accessible
Open today
10 AM–8 PM
Dr. Jay M. Gorell Reference Reading Room
Day Date Hours
Monday 11/11 CLOSED
Tuesday 11/12 9 AM–9 PM
Wednesday 11/13 9 AM–9 PM
Thursday 11/14 9 AM–9 PM
Friday 11/8 10 AM–8 PM
Saturday 11/9 10 AM–8 PM
Sunday 11/10 CLOSED
2024 Holiday Closings

The fourth floor of the Bronx Library Center is home to the Dr. Jay M. Gorell Reference Reading Room, where you'll find a reference collection comprised of a small concentration of books on business, law, and literature, as well as a circulating Spanish collection. You will find special reference collections for browsing on Bronx history, the works of Edgar Allan Poe, the Foundation Center, and a rare Latino and Puerto Rican Cultural Collection in our Heritage Room, lovingly called El Cuartito. In this "little room," you will find a collection reflecting the Latino experience, and enjoy artworks by various Latino artists. Please see a librarian for access.

With your library card, you can access up to 400 research databases on various subjects accessible on our 48 computers available on this floor.

El Cuartito | The "Little Room"

The New York Public Library is committed to preserving the stories and experiences of our diverse communities. The Bronx Library Center's Latino & Puerto Rican Cultural Center pays homage and celebrates the rich heritage and contributions of Latinx communities through a wide array of reference materials and monthly art showcases. Keep reading for a closer look at what makes this collection unique and worth a visit.

About the Collection

Affectionately named El Cuartito (the "Little Room"), the collection showcases an impressive array of resources, including books, manuscripts, photographs, artwork, and more—all of which highlight the history, achievements, and challenges faced by Latinx communities in the United States. Whether you're a history buff, an artist, a student, or simply someone eager to learn, this collection has something for you. A few examples include:

  • Juan Garrido: The Black Conquistador in the Antilles, Florida, Mexico, and California by Ricardo E. Alegria is a beautifully illustrated work that sheds light on the remarkable but often overlooked journey of this pioneering black explorer and conqueror.
  • Zapata's Disciple presents a collection of essays penned by poet Martin Espada, delving into themes encompassing social class, power dynamics, parenthood, and personal identity. Drawing from his own experiences, Espada offers insightful reflections on his father's life as a dark-skinned Puerto Rican, initially navigating the Air Force in Biloxi, Mississippi, and subsequently adapting to suburban life with his mother, a Jewish Jehovah's Witness. In these pages, Espada contemplates guiding his son through a world rife with prejudice and intolerance. Published two decades ago, this title resonates poignantly in our current times, echoing the enduring relevance of its thought-provoking narratives.
  • José Martí: Selected Writings by Esther Allen delves into the often overlooked corners of the renowned poet, prolific writer, and visionary founder of the Cuban Revolutionary Party. Within the pages of this anthology, Martí's panoramic view unfolds—ranging from the vibrant pulse of Coney Island to the philosophical resonance of Ralph Waldo Emerson. His literary journey encompasses diverse terrain, from the struggles of the working class to the intricate tapestry of high-society existence. 
  • Author Piri Thomas, acclaimed for his work Down These Mean Streets, presents a heartfelt collection titled Stories from El Barrio. Within these eight poignant tales thoughtfully crafted for young readers, Thomas intimately shares glimpses of his upbringing in Puerto Rican New York. These narratives provide a vivid window into his childhood experiences, offering a resonant exploration of life, culture, and community within the dynamic environment of El Barrio.
  • Arboles de Puerto Rico by Edwin Miner Solá and Plantas medicinales de Puerto Rico by Esteban Núñez Meléndez are must-reads for those who hold a passion for nature and are fortunate to journey to Puerto Rico. These invaluable resources offer a comprehensive guide to the island's rich botanical diversity, empowering you to explore and appreciate its trees and medicinal plants in all their glory.
Bridge: From the Bronx to Boriken
Artist Bio: Nelson Host Santiago, a New York City native, deeply rooted in his Puerto Rican heritage, was born in Spanish Harlem and raised in the Bronx.

Nelson discerned his innate artistic talent at the tender age of four when one of his uncles introduced him to a series of comic books. It was love at first sight! Influenced by colorful images depicting various superheroes, he began drawing, sketching, and painting, producing his earliest works without any formal training. Shortly thereafter, Nelson became captivated by urban hip-hop culture and immersed himself in the world of graffiti. It was at this time that “Host One” emerged unto the cityscape. Throughout the following decade, Nelson, aka Host One, actively engaged in Wild Style pieces as well as a street bombing on a myriad of metropolitan “canvases”.

After a lengthy hiatus, during which time he focused solely on his family, Nelson reappeared on the art scene. He embraced Live Art Performance as a new form of collective artistic expression. Nelson has since graced many a venue. Participated in various gallery shows and live painting events in New York City, New Jersey, Boston, Florida, Los Angeles, and Puerto Rico, Nelson is also an active member of Escape Artist Collective and PRIDA.

In addition to his artistic engagements, Nelson revels in the process of encouraging art enthusiasts; he provides tools and demonstrates techniques thereby empowering them to explore diverse creative outlets and uncover their own inherent capabilities. In light of his passion and willingness to share his artistic skills, Nelson has been invited as a guest artist by Montefiore Medical Hospital in the Bronx to lead an art therapy workshop for young cancer patients. His most recent work has been with the Artists Creative Theater, teaching art classes to youth in Brooklyn.

Nelson welcomes every opportunity to be an integral part of the effort to serve the community. Nelson's artwork focuses on socioeconomic, political, and domestic violence within marginalized communities and the island of Puerto Rico.

https://www.nelsonhostsantiago.com/

Also check out this article about Santiago's previous exhibit at the NYPL.
Also check out this article about Santiago's previous exhibit at the NYPL.