Rosebuds Reading Collective was founded by Nora Fried inside the women’s ward at Rikers Island Jail in New York City. The goal was simple: to create a space where people inside could connect, reflect, and imagine new possibilities through reading.
What started as a small group of women coming together to discuss a shared book has grown into a thriving community that now spans multiple wards. Today, Rosebuds includes the men’s units, led by Esteban Gaspar Silva, who facilitates bilingual English and Spanish book clubs.
Each group is built on conversation, curiosity, and the joy of discovering stories together.
We partner with Greenlight Bookstore, a beloved local independent bookstore, to source the majority of our books and ensure each participant receives their own copy to keep.
We are now seeking sponsors and large donors to help keep this meaningful work alive and to ensure that everyone inside Rikers who wants to read has the chance to do so.
To support us, you can donate through the GoFundMe link on our site or reach out to our founder at norafried@gmail.com to discuss partnership opportunities.
To support us, you can donate through the GoFundMe link on our site or reach out to our founder at norafried@gmail.com to discuss partnership opportunities.
📚 Reading Syllabus
Women’s Group
📚 Reading Syllabus
Men’s Group
norafried@gmail.com
(202) 527-2842
New York City