31 Jul Stories of Exile
We are excited to be one of 28 libraries across the nation to receive the “Stories of Exile” Reading Groups for Public Libraries grant from the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Mass. “Stories of Exile” is a reading and discussion program to engage participants in thinking about experiences of displacement, migration, and diaspora. In this program, librarians organize reading groups to discuss three books of Yiddish literature in translation, and one book related to the experience of a community served by their library. In addition to the reading groups, we also have a wonderful array of events planned for October 2023 to March 2024.
“Stories of Exile” Reading Groups for Public Libraries
Book Discussion: On the Landing Stories by Yenta Mash
Wednesday, October 18 @1-2PM
Read and discuss some of these sixteen stories, available in English for the first time, that trace an arc across continents, across upheavals and regime changes, and across the phases of a woman’s life. Registration and a commitment to attend are required to receive a complimentary copy of the book. Quantities are limited. Books will be available beginning Wednesday, September 13.
The book is also available for checkout with your library card.
The Yiddish Book Center’s “Stories of Exile” Reading Groups for Public Libraries is made possible by a gift from Sharon Karmazin.
Registration required.
Film: Jews of the Wild West
Thursday, November 16 @1-3PM
Western Jewish pioneers, those of the silver screen and real life, are a largely forgotten chapter in US History. And yet, they played a definitive role shaping the expansion of the United States. The wagon trains that moved westward with Jewish families traveled for the same reason as many settlers: opportunity. By 1912, it is estimated over 100,000 Jewish immigrants had moved to the Wild West. They put down roots and, today, they epitomize the important legacy of immigration in America. Through on-camera interviews, compelling footage, and historical photographs, the film tells a positive immigration story and highlights the dynamic contributions Jewish Americans made to shaping the Western United States. Free.
Registration required.
Celebrating Yinglish!
Wednesday, December 20 @7PM
Yinglish is that unique American linguistic combination of Yiddish and English. From the more than 5,000 Yiddish words that have officially become part of the English language, Avi Hoffman presents stories and words that celebrate the idiomatic phenomenon that laid the foundation for modern mainstream culture. Hoffman is a renowned award-winning actor, Jewish culture activist, and founder and CEO of Yiddishkayt Initiative. Free.
Registration required.
More events will be added soon. Please check back.