Thanks to “Connect to Northern Westchester” Magazine for the distinction of being named “Best Community Builder.” We know we serve great coffee and offer the best books, art supplies, gifts and such — BUT we always strive to ALSO be a part of the community. Our staff is amazing, with huge hearts and a desire to always pitch in with efforts to ‘do the right thing’ — whether it’s raising funds for a local organization, gathering food donations for the community center, educating on issues, picking books that show diversity, hosting events that welcome all sorts of people, and so much more, we love getting this “best of” award and thank Connect to Northern Westchester for the recognition of this side work we do that helps us keep our center and the heart of this community right here at the Reading Room.

“Whether you’re browsing for a new book, grabbing coffee with a friend or picking up a gift, Katonah Reading Room seems to have it all. This bookstore-meets-coffee-shop-meets-gift-store-meets-sweets-shop has been a favorite destination for locals in Katonah and their neighbors for over 12 years.

But shopping isn’t the reason they won our community builder award; it’s because they’re truly a community hub. Sure, you’ll find friends catching up, but you’ll also find lively book discussions, author readings, watercolor sessions and educational events with local nonprofits. As good neighbors, the Reading Room regularly donates to a wide range of charitable funds and uses their social media following for good, helping nonprofits spread the word about special donation requests. Plus, at the end of the day, all leftover food is donated to the Community Center of Northern Westchester.

Off the Record: Their building, originally the town’s library, was one of the buildings moved by horses and logs when Katonah was forced to relocate for the NYC reservoir. According to the staff, the building is haunted.” — Connect to Northern Westchester

To see the full write-up and list of other great “best of” categories on Connect, click here