Since its inception Build has been a gathering place rooted in curiosity, care, and connection—serving thoughtfully sourced coffee alongside small press books, zines, and community events. Build has established itself as a trusted third space for neighbors, organizers, artists, students, and storytellers.

Build was founded in 2017 by Bea Malsky and Hannah Nyhart, who started out selling iced coffee at the 61st Street Farmers Market before expanding into a brick and mortar space. In 2025, the café entered a new chapter when longtime regulars and collaborators Eve L. Ewing, trína reynolds-tyler and Andrea Faye Hart took over leadership as volunteer co-owners .Together, they relaunched the space as Build Coffee & Books.

We continue to be a place where people can meet over a cup of coffee or great food, find a book that moves them, and build something—together. We believe providing neighbors a space to share the basic building blocks of human connection— fellowship, food, and imagination— helps to build thriving, just, and joyful communities.