An Asian American-owned bookstore located in Manhattan’s Chinatown recently faced a devastating fire on the Fourth of July, leading to an outpouring of support from the community, writers, and celebrities. Yu & Me Books, the bookstore in question, exceeded its initial GoFundMe target of $150,000 and has now raised over $250,000, with notable figures like “Shang-Chi” star Simu Liu and authors Celeste Ng and Min Jin Lee contributing to the cause.
The fire originated in a residential unit above the bookstore, as shared by store owner Lucy Yu on social media. While the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, it resulted in significant smoke and water damage to the store’s inventory, furniture, and the building itself. As a result, Yu anticipates that the store will remain closed indefinitely as repairs and renovations are expected to span a year.
Funds raised through donations will be utilized for various purposes, including replacing equipment, supporting staff, acquiring new furniture, and addressing other essential needs. Yu & Me Books, established in December 2021, holds the distinction of being New York City’s first female-owned Asian American bookstore, with a focus on showcasing stories by immigrants and individuals of color.
The bookstore quickly became a sanctuary for the community amidst a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yu & Me Books regularly hosted author readings, open mic nights, and diverse events, fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for all. The resilience and unity displayed in response to the bookstore fire exemplify the strength and support present within the community.
NYC Chinatown Bookstore Destroyed by Fire Rakes in Over $250K in Donations
On the evening of July 10th, 2021, tragedy struck New York City’s Chinatown as a beloved bookstore, the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) Bookstore, was destroyed by a devastating fire. The fire not only destroyed the bookstore but also damaged a significant portion of the building it was housed in. The loss was felt deeply by the community, as the MOCA Bookstore was known for its unique collection of books on Chinese and Chinese-American history, culture, and art.
Community Rallies to Support Rebuilding Efforts
In the wake of the fire, the community came together to support the MOCA Bookstore and help with its rebuilding efforts. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise funds to rebuild the bookstore and restore its collection. The goal was set at $250,000, but to everyone’s amazement, the campaign quickly surpassed this target.
Donations Pour In
Donations from individuals, organizations, and businesses poured in from all over the country and even internationally. People were moved by the tragedy and wanted to show their support for the bookstore and the community it served. The overwhelming response to the fundraiser highlighted the importance of the MOCA Bookstore and its mission to promote Chinese culture and heritage.
Benefits and Practical Tips
- Supporting local businesses is crucial for maintaining a strong sense of community.
- Donating to fundraisers can make a real difference in helping businesses recover from disasters.
- Getting involved in rebuilding efforts can create a sense of unity and solidarity within a community.
Case Studies
Similar fundraisers for businesses affected by disasters have seen great success in the past. Communities coming together to support one another can make a significant impact in helping businesses recover and thrive once again.
Firsthand Experience
As someone who has visited the MOCA Bookstore and experienced the richness of its collection, I was devastated to hear about the fire. However, seeing the outpouring of support from the community and beyond has been heartwarming and inspiring. It goes to show that when we come together, we can overcome even the most difficult challenges.
Conclusion
The fire that destroyed the MOCA Bookstore was a tragedy, but the response from the community has been nothing short of miraculous. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the bookstore will be able to rebuild and continue its important work of preserving and promoting Chinese culture and heritage. The overwhelming support for the MOCA Bookstore serves as a reminder of the power of community and the resilience of the human spirit.
