About

From Local Gathering Place to National Literacy Movement

The Eat & Read Literacy Project was founded with a bold vision: to make literacy accessible, engaging, and embedded in everyday life. Launched inside Melba's Po' Boys on Elysian Fields Avenue, this innovative New Orleans literacy program transforms a beloved neighborhood destination into a hub for learning and cultural connection. What began with small but meaningful efforts—like creating reading spaces and hosting community-based author events—has grown into a nationally recognized initiative that redefines how people access books and education.

At its core, Eat & Read is driven by a mission to combat literacy challenges in New Orleans by meeting people where they are. By offering free books, hosting dynamic author talks, and creating welcoming spaces for readers of all ages, the program removes traditional barriers to education. It fosters a culture of curiosity, conversation, and lifelong learning—empowering individuals and strengthening the community one story at a time.

Leadership Driving Change in New Orleans Literacy

Eat & Read Literacy Project was founded by Scott and Jane Wolfe, visionary leaders committed to blending hospitality, culture, and education to create meaningful community impact. Through their leadership at Melba's, they have reimagined what a neighborhood business can represent—transforming it into a platform for literacy, connection, and opportunity. Their approach is rooted in accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that books and learning resources are available to everyone who walks through the doors. By partnering with local and national authors, educators, and community organizations, the leadership team continues to expand the program's reach and influence—positioning Eat & Read as a model for literacy innovation across the country.

Engaged Entrepreneurship

At Melba's in New Orleans, entrepreneurship goes beyond business—it becomes a tool for community impact through the Eat & Read Literacy Project. Founders Scott and Jane Wolfe embrace "engaged entrepreneurship," using their platform to promote literacy, support local authors, and provide free access to books and educational resources. Through initiatives like Lunch & Literacy events and community reading spaces inside Wash World, they are helping address literacy challenges in New Orleans while creating meaningful connections between culture, education, and everyday life.

From GED to Harvard to Inc. 500 offers the dual perspectives of New Orleans restaurateurs, Scott and Jane Wolfe, each telling the story of the long-odds they faced building one of the most beloved restaurants in New Orleans.
In 1982, as teenagers, the Wolfe's bought a rundown market in New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward. Setting out to build a business that their community could take pride in, the young couple revived the old Wagner's Meats shaped it once again into a neighborhood fixture, eventually growing the business to ten locations over the next 25 years.
Then, Hurricane Katrina destroyed everything they had built. Always resilient, not even a force majeure like Katrina could keep the Wolfes down for long.