Gladys Books & Wine in Brooklyn, N.Y., has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help it recover from repeated flooding, BK Reader reported.
"Each storm brings new damage, and we've spent months trying to get our landlord to take it seriously and make the repairs that are their responsibility," wrote owner Tiffany Dockery on the GoFundMe page. "That cooperation hasn't come. Meanwhile, the water keeps coming back, because Bed-Stuy itself sits in a part of Brooklyn that is increasingly prone to flooding."
Money raised by the crowdfunding campaign will go toward covering the damage already done, including clean-up, repairs, and replacing lost inventory; investing in waterproofing, drainage, and other preventative measures; and holding the store's landlords accountable to their legal responsibilities.
Launched with a goal of $60,000, the campaign raised more than $56,100 in its first week, and Dockery has already been able to start work on the basement. In an update posted May 25, she wrote: "I was absolutely overwhelmed (in the best possible way) by the outpouring of love and support. Whether you are a regular or someone who just found out about us but believe in our mission, please accept my deepest thanks."
Dockery opened the bookstore and wine bar in 2025. It focuses on books by Black and queer women and is named in honor of Dockery's grandmother.