New chapter for Dyker Heights

Dyker Heights residents finally have a bookstore to call their own.

Last weekend, Tatiana Nicoli (pictured with celebrated the grand opening of Boulevard Books, her independent shop located in the heart of Dyker Heights on 13th Avenue — and it was such a big deal that the borough president even showed up to cut the ribbon.

“We’ve never had a bookstore all the years I’ve been here,” said Nicoli. “And we need one.”

The spot features sections for children and young reader and adult titles (big sellers have been items in Oprah’s Book Club), as well as a cafe, reading nook, lounge and garden.

“I wanted a way to connect back with people again,” said Nicoli, who traded her job as an attorney to become more engaged in her community.

“And to be around books is amazing.”

Beyond selling books, Nicoli looks to have authors in for events (next up is Martin Rooney of “Ultimate Warrior Workouts” on June 11), as well as cooking demonstrations, a book club, speed dating nights, and family story time on Saturdays.

“I wanted it to appeal to everyone in the community, from the littlest of the littlest to senior citizens,” said Nicoli, who named her bookstore Boulevard Books because it’s on 13th Avenue, aka Dyker Heights Boulevard, and also because “the boulevard tends to be where everyone gathers.”

“I want it to be a gathering place,” said Nicoli.

Boulevard Books [7518 13th Ave. between Bay Ridge Parkway and 76th Street in Dyker Heights, (718) 680-5881]. Open Monday to Thursday, 10 am-8 pm, and Sunday, 11 am-4 pm.

Photo by Tom Callan