Mil Mundos Books on 323 Linden St. is open as a community center during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Angelica Tejada.

When Mil Mundos Books opened in Bushwick in March 2019, founder and co-owner Maria Herron wanted to create not just a bookstore but a place where Latinx New Yorkers could celebrate their culture through cultural events and indulge in activist activities.

But when COVID-19 hit in March of this year, Herron – like many small business owners – had to close and its services went online including its six-week Spanish classes workshop.

Herron converted the bookstore’s location on 323 Linden St. into a community center to help those in need during the pandemic.

“We connected with people on mutual aid efforts, and I really have to give it to them, I still remember seeing the vans,” Herron, 33, said in a phone interview. Continue reading …