ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Nestled in the heart of Rochester’s South Wedge is a hidden gem where stories go far beyond the page. At Hipocampo Children’s Books, reading is tied closely to identity, culture, and celebrating voices from around the world.

For the past six years, Hipocampo has stood out as the only Latine woman-owned independent bookstore outside the New York City metro area. The shop provides more than bookshelves lined with stories from across the globe — it also offers meaningful programming and a welcoming space for the community.

“Every time I walk in here and open that door, I get a rush of the smell of a bookstore hit me. And that’s like a cool thing, you know?” said co-owner Henry Padrón-Morales. He runs Hipocampo alongside his partner, Pamela.

Padrón-Morales describes

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