Congregation Beth Israel Library

Despite our small size, the Library won a Solomon Schechter Award in 2001
which was presented at the U.S.C.J. convention in February 2002.

Here are our top ten ways to have an award-winning library.

#10 -- Library hours tailored, yet flexible to fit your congregation's needs.

# 9 -- Specialized sections for children, young adults and audiotapes.

# 8 -- Displays to showcase recent library happenings and acquisitions.

# 7 -- Annual wishlist of books presented to the congregation to encourage donations to the library.

# 6 -- Library section in synagogue newsletter to touch base with members.

# 5 -- "Book-shmooze" -- Monthly review of a new or old book by one of the committee members.

# 4 -- Express check -- Members can call ahead for books or topics and books are made ready for easy access and check-out.

# 3 -- Family service reading program -- books read by librarians for the children during family services.

# 2 -- "Book Mobile" -- Books travel via cart to different areas of the synagogue at different times to pique interest in library offerings.

 

AND THE #1 WAY TO AN AWARD-WINNING LIBRARY . . . .

SHABBAT CHECK-OUT!!!!
Here's how:

* A file with each family's name, address and phone number is needed.

* Each week pre-stamp "date due" cards with appropriate due date.

* To check out book on Sabbath:

1) Remove book pocket card from book.

2) Place card in appropriate member's envelope.

3) Place "date due" card in card pocket of book.

4) After Shabbat, record name and date due on book pocket card in member's envelope.

(We found this little trick to be invaluable in increasing our circulation and interest in library "doings"!)

Pat Books -- Chair Library Committee