New 1,500-square-foot independent bookstore opened May 2026.
The Port Washington Business Improvement District (BID) announces grant award to the owners of new business, Book RePort, located at 40 Main Street, Port Washington. Book RePort is owned by local residents Mara Silverstein and Kathleen Schechter, the bookstore serves readers, families, and visitors in Port Washington and surrounding communities.
Since opening in May 2026, Book RePort has grown into an active gathering place for readers of all ages. The store offers a carefully selected collection of books for children and adults, along with games, stationery and gifts. Its café, which will serve coffee and tea, is expected to open shortly.
The store regularly welcomes established and emerging authors for conversations and signings, while its Local Author Sit-and-Sign series provides a dedicated space for writers from the area. Book RePort also works with schools and community organizations on programs inside the store and throughout Port Washington.
“When we described Book RePort as a community space before we opened, that was our hope,” said Silverstein. “Now it is something we get to see every day. People come in for a book and discover a book club, an author conversation or an evening of storytelling. The store feels active and welcoming, and the response from the community has been incredible.”
“We have been especially excited to see younger readers feel at home here,” said Schechter. “They come in looking for a favorite series and often leave having discovered something completely new. We want children to feel comfortable exploring the shelves, talking with us about what they love and knowing that this is their bookstore, too.”
“The Port Washington BID is proud to recognize the vision, dedication, and hard work of Mara and Kat in bringing Book RePort to life,” said Nadine Delmonte, a member of the Port Washington BID Board. “Their commitment to creating a welcoming, innovative space for readers and the broader community is an outstanding example of how new business owners can contribute to the vitality of our business district. The BID is pleased to support entrepreneurs who are investing in Port Washington and helping our commercial community continue to grow.”
A Destination for Readers Across the Region
Book RePort is the only independent bookstore within approximately 15 miles and serves Port Washington and surrounding communities. Located less than 45 minutes from Manhattan and one block from the train station, the bookstore is positioned as a destination for author events and literary programming.
Port Washington BID Grant Support for Local Businesses
The Port Washington BID offers grant opportunities designed to support new and innovative business owners as they open, improve, and grow their businesses in the district, helping strengthen the vitality of the local commercial community. Businesses interested in learning more about available grants, eligibility, and application information can visit www.portwashingtonbid.org.
The Port Washington BID welcomes Book RePort’s arrival as a community-focused addition to Main Street and a new gathering place for residents and visitors. For more information about Book RePort, visit www.bookreportny.com, follow @bookreportny on Instagram, or contact info@bookreportny.com.
The Port Washington Business Improvement District supports the economic and business health of Port Washington through marketing, promotion, physical improvements, enhanced municipal services, and initiatives that sustain and grow the local commercial community.