Today we’d like to introduce you to Carmen Rusu.
Hi Carmen, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my career as an English as a Second Language teacher in my home country of Romania. After moving to the United States, I experienced the disorientation of leaving behind a familiar professional identity, something many immigrants can relate to. But in that space of uncertainty, a new opportunity emerged: co-creating with my husband Symposia.
This is a nonprofit community bookstore in the heart of Hoboken, NJ, dedicated to fostering human connection through storytelling, creativity, and shared experiences. What began as a bookstore has evolved into a vibrant gathering place for people of all backgrounds.
Another branch of my work is Puppetonia, a small puppet theater I created to bring stories to life for young children. Our shows are interactive, playful, and designed to introduce early language skills in English and Spanish. It’s a magical way to engage little ones and their caregivers in shared joy and learning.
I am a mother of 2 children , a boy and a girl who are now adults .
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
When I first arrived in the United States, I struggled deeply with a sense of not belonging. I came from a more close-knit and restricted environment, and it was difficult to understand this new culture. I often missed social cues, references, even humor.
But I became a student again—observing, asking questions, seeking feedback.
Over time, something shifted. By building Symposia, I found not only a community—but true friendships. Today, I not only feel that I belong, but I feel that I contribute meaningfully to my community. One customer recently wrote in a Google review: “Symposia gives a soul to our town.”
That meant everything to me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
This is a nonprofit community bookstore in the heart of Hoboken, NJ, dedicated to fostering human connection through storytelling, creativity, and shared experiences. What began as a bookstore has evolved into a vibrant gathering place for people of all backgrounds.
At the beginning we did not have many resources , we were the only ones working here . But I posted on Facebook and Instagram that Symposia needed volunteers. The response was incredible. People showed up with open hearts, and in the process, they built friendships and found a sense of belonging. That continues to be one of the most beautiful aspects of our organization. Seeing volunteers laughing, chatting, and forming real connections brings me immense joy.
Another branch of my work is Puppetonia, a small puppet theater I created to bring stories to life for young children. Our shows are interactive, playful, and designed to introduce early language skills in English and Spanish. It’s a magical way to engage little ones and their caregivers in shared joy and learning.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Our volunteers deserve so much of the credit for what Symposia has become.
They bring incredible heart and dedication to everything they do—whether it’s recommending books, organizing the shelves, helping with events, or creating our beautiful window displays. I truly could not do what I do without them.
Symposia Bookstore simply wouldn’t exist without the generosity of Mayor David Roberts and his family. Their ongoing support—and their willingness to rent us our space at just a fraction of its value—has made all the difference in keeping our doors open.
Pricing:
- From $3 to $25 per book
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.symposia.us
- Instagram: Symposiabookstore
- Facebook: Symposia Bookstore
