Today, Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson gathered with RCSD Superintendent Dr. Eric J. Rosser, Emily Clasper, Director of Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System, Chris Fanning, Deputy Director of Writers and Books and other community leaders, independent bookstore owners and educators to celebrate the success of the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge with the opening of a Little Free Library outside his District Office on University Ave.

Summer Reading is an annual program sponsored by NYS that brings together elected offices, libraries, and schools to challenge young people to devote at least 15 minutes per day for 40 days to reading for fun. Each year, the Assemblymember and his office staff also participate in the challenge and share book recommendations with each other. The Summer Reading Challenge launched in 2000 and this year’s theme is “Unearth a Story.” Students who complete the challenge receive an official certificate of recognition.

Integral to a love of reading are spaces where people build community around books and learning. Today’s press conference also highlighted the essential role schools, libraries and independent bookstores play in cultivating diverse perspectives, promoting literacy and creating those third spaces where people can share in a love of reading.

The bright yellow Little Free Library was designed and painted by Rochester-based artist Unique Fair, an RCSD graduate, and features quotes and images of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, both of whom promoted the importance of reading for transforming societies and minds. Each of the books inside the Little Free Library at opening were recommended by libraries, schools, independent bookstores, or summer reading participants from the district. Constituents and community members are encouraged to continue recommending books and consider donating books they have finished reading. The books in Assemblymember Bronson’s Little Free Library are suitable for a variety of ages and topics, free to any borrowers, and available all year round.

Assemblymember Bronson sees the Little Free Library on University Ave as a commitment to keeping books accessible to all and promoting a love of reading for people of all ages and abilities. A pillar of this Little Free Library will be sharing as many perspectives as possible to emphasize the importance of literacy for achieving diversity, promoting creativity, sparking curiosity, and offering opportunity for people to explore their interests.

“Reading connects us to worlds far beyond our own – independent bookstores, public and school libraries, and schools play an important role in establishing a community that is connected through literacy and learning,” said Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson. “I have made many friends and lasting connections in my life through a shared love of books and am honored to have many independent bookstores and libraries in my district! I believe this Little Free Library will contribute to the joy found in reading – as well as introducing me to many wonderful books to add to my own reading list!”

"We're grateful for the support of Assemblymember Bronson in helping make books and reading more visible throughout our community. This new Little Free Library is a wonderful reminder that even a single book can inspire curiosity, learning, and connection. We hope it also inspires people to visit their local public library, where everyone is welcome to explore books, technology, programs, and endless opportunities to learn and grow," said Emily Clasper – Director, Rochester Public Library & Monroe County Library System.

You can visit Assemblymember Bronson’s Little Free Library at 840 University Ave, Rochester, NY 14607