Libraries

"Treasures and wealth are in his house - and his generosity stands for ever". This verse from Psalms (112:3) is explained by the Sages to mean: "someone who buys books and lends them to others." Clearly they mean a Jewish Library of some kind, and it is impressive to see how far back this idea goes.

A good Jewish Library gives access to all areas of Jewish teaching. The reader can browse, look for this book, leaf through that book, borrow a book - or two, or three - to take home. He or she can enjoy the wealth of a shared Jewish heritage which belongs to us all.

In 1972 the Lubavitcher Rebbe called for the general establishment of Jewish Libraries. Many Chabad-Lubavitch centres already had libraries, but the Rebbe's call led to expansion of existing resources and the creation of new ones.

The main Lubavitch Library house in the Lubavitch Children's Centre is run by Mr Zvi Rabin, a professional librarian, and his wife Feige. They run a wonderful library with over 10,000 volumes, where virtually every book written in English from an authentic traditional Jewish perspective can be found. There is a postal service and there are inquiries and users from all over the UK.

Apart from this highly professional central library, most Chabad Houses have a library, generally run on a less formal basis. Try your local Chabad House, or contact the central Lubavitch Library at 020 8800 5823.