A Storybook Season: The Study at Yale and New Haven Reads

The holidays at The Study at Yale are all about connection, community, and giving back. Each season, the hotel partners with New Haven Reads, a local nonprofit dedicated to improving literacy and providing free books and tutoring for city students, to spread a little extra joy around town.

The partnership runs deep, built on a shared love of reading and a belief in the power of small gestures. Guests might notice custom bookmarks at check-in designed by New Haven Reads students for National Literacy Month or see the hotel hosting community events that support the organization’s volunteers and families. Every detail reflects the same purpose: to lift up the local community through creativity and care.

In December, that spirit shines brightest. The Study’s holiday tree comes to life with ornaments handmade by New Haven Reads students, including angels, garlands, and candy canes crafted with love. The hotel donates last year’s decorations to Trees of Hope, a fundraiser that benefits the New Haven Ronald McDonald House, and sells holiday cards featuring student artwork in The Living Room, with proceeds going back to New Haven Reads.

The season’s highlight is Breakfast with Santa, a heartwarming morning where students and families gather for pancakes, music, and gifts of new books from RJ Julia Booksellers. Local partners like TYCO Print + Promo and Wild Orchid Florist lend their talents to make the celebration feel extra special, reminding everyone what community looks like when it comes together.

Those inspired to give back this season can visit newhavenreads.org/get_involved/donate or email information@newhavenreads.org.

For The Study, the holidays are about more than decorating the tree. They are about sharing the joy that comes from giving, reading, and building something meaningful together.