The library resources of Congregation Beth El include thousands of books and hundreds of audio and VHS videotapes, as well as a periodicals collection and the Phyllis Natkow Teachers' Resource Collection.
Library hours, during the academic year, are:
SUNDAY 9:00 - 12:00 (Religious School Days Only)
MONDAY 9:30 - 12:00
TUESDAY 2:30 - 5:00
WEDNESDAY 9:00 - 12:00 and 2:00 - 6:15
THURSDAY 9:30 - 12:00
FRIDAY 9:00 - 2:30
Summer Hours
TUESDAY 9:30 – 12:30
and
THURSDAY 9:30 – 12:30
…if these hours are not convenient, please call us (675-1166, ext. 305) to make other arrangements.
The Library Director is Amy Kaplan, who holds a master's degree in Library and Information Science. Pat Cwanger is the Library Assistant.
Beth El's award-winning library offers a large circulating collection of Judaic fiction (including the latest bestsellers) and nonfiction on such topics as Jewish history, cooking, customs and holidays, spirituality, and much more. You may borrow these items to enjoy at home; there is no fee for borrowing.
The children's collection includes a large selection of fiction and nonfiction for all ages, from toddlers to teens. The Early Childhood classes enjoy their weekly visit to the library for story time and to browse age-appropriate books.
Where do you go for answers to such questions as:
- What are the Jewish points of interest for visitors to the Caribbean Islands?
- Where can I find a recipe for really good apple cake?
- Where can I find a good quote or anecdote to use in a speech?
- Which universities offer kosher meal plans?
…the answers to these and other questions are right here in the Library. Come visit -- or call us -- and we will provide answers to your questions. We use our own resources, the services offered through Library networks, and our advanced Internet searching skills to provide quick responses to your inquiries.
The Library belongs to the Association of Jewish Libraries and the New Jersey Library Network, Region 6.
Library resources and services are financed in part through contributions to the Synagogue Library Fund. Donations of $25 and above entitle the donor to an inscribed bookplate in a library book. Your support is appreciated.
Move over Oprah...Do you love to read? And do you enjoy sharing your responses to what you read? If the idea of a "book club" appeals to you, consider attending our Library's Short Story Discussion Group. There are some fantastic short stories being written by today's young Jewish authors; there are also many fine classic stories by beloved Jewish writers of an earlier era. We read a variety of stories (one per month) and gather to discuss them. This group meets once each month, usually on the fourth Thursday of the month, 1:30 - 3:00 PM. For more information about this enjoyable Discussion Group, call the Library. We'd love to have you join us.
From The Beth El News--September, 2008
We’ve spent the summer months doing lots of behind-the-scenes work to freshen up the library. We’ve added dozens of books and weeded out some tired titles that needed to go. Please remember that our temporary location during construction is Room 211.
Did you know…? The Library offers reference/research assistance as well as books, periodicals, DVDs, and books on CD. Our DVD collection features recent releases like the ones you see at the Showcase at the Ritz Theater. We have the latest bestselling novels, as well as cookbooks, biography, history, children’s picture books, and much more. We invite you to visit frequently and borrow books and media for yourself and your family. There is never a charge for borrowing any item (including DVDs!).
Questions? Please call us at 675-1166, ext. 305.
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…speaking of DVDs, our collection has really grown! Here are a few of the recent additions:
The Jewish Americans. Sound familiar? This was an acclaimed PBS series last winter. If you missed it, or if you just want to see it again, be sure to borrow this DVD
Arranged. This story centers on the friendship between an Orthodox Jewish woman and a Muslim woman who meet as first-year teachers at a public school in Brooklyn.
Ira & Abby. You’ll enjoy this smart, witty romance about two unlikely soulmates, featuring a very funny ensemble cast
Black Book. In the Nazi-occupied Netherlands during World War II, a Jewish singer infiltrates the regional Gestapo headquarters for the Dutch resistance.
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…and now, we’ve added BOOKS ON CD! These are multi-CD sets you can enjoy while driving, exercising, or relaxing at home. We’ve just begun to collect these and look forward to growing this selection. We buy unabridged versions whenever possible, so you’re getting “the whole story.”
The titles on CD we now offer are:
Bloom, A.: Away
Brooks, G.: People of the Book
Chabon, M.: The Yiddish Policemen’s Union
Melman, P.: Landsman
Silva, D.: The Secret Servant
Weiner, J.: Certain Girls
F.Y.I. We offer all of the above CD titles in print format as well….
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Our popular Short Story Discussion Group reconvenes next month. Our Short Story Discussion Group meets once each month, on Thursdays. We discuss stories by Jewish authors, classic and contemporary. Our group is always open to new members; you need not attend every session – come when you can. I invite you to join us, and bring your friends and neighbors. Next month’s column will contain details about our October session, scheduled for Thursday, October 30, 1:30 – 3:00PM. I hope to see you there!