Today was another spectacular day. I had opportunity today to explore the library at the school. I was interested in seeing their Judaic collection and, in particular, the Jewish text section. There were, to be sure, many editions of the bible, but few rabbinic sources. There were also some books missing, as, for example, a full set of Soncino Talmuds. Furthermore, the collection was not in a very visible part of the library. On a personal note, I strongly feel that the Judaic collection of a Jewish day school should be among the most pronounced part of the building. Certainly this was considered when the JDS upper school campus was planned. I spoke to Gabor about this and he suggested that it was not a priority, as these books would not be used by the students to any great extent. Regardless, I still feel that these books should be on display. How can the students be expected to know what the Talmud is (which they did not know in my classes) if they had never seen a Talmud? Undoubtedly a well displayed copy of the Talmud would peek their interest. In addition, the library also had some old books, including a 300 year old copy of the Ravad’s commentary on the Talmud. Unfortunately, it was on a bookshelf in the back of the library, not protected in any way and simply collecting dust. Certainly a book worth displaying and probably also worth quite a bit of money.
During our interview for this program we were asked to think about a project we could participate in. I would like, perhaps, to do something with the library at the school. We are getting rid of many books at the our JDS library as we continue to digitalize. Perhaps we can share some of our collection with the school? In addition, I would love to help the display more prominently their current collection. Once this is done I can share more readily with the students the significance of these books. Finally, I would want to go through their rare books and see what other gems they have.
The highlight of the day, however, was meeting the head of the JCC. A very dynamic woman and I appreciated her answers to our questions. I asked her about the tendency I have found for people to find equivalency between the period of the Nazis and that of Communism and how they impacted upon the Jewish community. Although I personally find no equivalency, of course I did not live through either so I have little to base my opinion upon. She, on the other hand, while giving credit to the Soviets as liberators and protectors of rights, gave a thoughtful answer that explained the impact of both time periods and their effects on the Jewish community, both leading to its weakening. Gave me much to think about as we continue our journey…..
