The Helen Blau Memorial Library is a source of pride at Central Synagogue. This beautiful room, located in the Upper Rotunda, houses an outstanding collection of Jewish books, films, music and magazines. Our librarian, Paula Spector, continually updates our collection with the newest in Jewish fiction and non-fiction, reference works and books for children of all ages.
We have a flexible lending policy and will do whatever we can to facilitate your visit to our library. Books may be returned to the library or to the main office, but preferably not to the religious school office. We strive to provide you with items of interest, so please contact Paula with your suggestions.
In the past two years, the Library Committee has sponsored two book talks as part of a "Central Reads" program, encouraging congregants to read the same book and come together for an enjoyable and enlightening evening. In December 2009 Paula facilitated a discussion of My Father's Paradise -- A Son's Search for His Father's Past by Ariel Sabar, and in November 2008 the choice was The People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks. We also highlighted our growing DVD collection by sponsoring a movie night in May 2009. The feature presentation was the Coen brothers' A Serious Man, followed by a lively discussion led by Library Committee member Marcia Gold. More such events are planned for the future.
Our Library Committee - Laura Atlas, Evelyn Bishop, Dot Feit, Edith Friedman, Marcia Gold, Cathy Kent, Barbara Prins and Ronna Weiss - works together with Paula on the library’s upkeep and welcomes new members. Read about how our library came to be.
Donations to the Library Fund are appreciated and will be mentioned in the temple bulletin. If you wish to commemorate a special occasion, a bookplate can be appropriately inscribed.
