Makor’s bookish appeal
OUTREACH is the theme of Makor Jewish Community Library's annual appeal, which was launched this week. According to director Leonie Fleiszig, the facility is the only connection many Jews have with the community.
OUTREACH is the theme of Makor Jewish Community Library’s annual appeal, which was launched this week. According to director Leonie Fleiszig, the facility is the only connection many Jews have with the community.
“Most people who come to Makor don’t live in Caulfield. In fact, 90 per cent who come in on a Sunday are Israelis living in areas like Warburton and Footscray. We will also send books out to them,” she said.
“Many people, non-Jews too, will come in, read and use the library. You don’t have to pay if you’re not a member.”
The library has a large range of Hebrew books and films, runs regular “Hebrew Hour” programs and screens Israeli films monthly.
The elderly are also voracious users of the library — some participating in the Write Your Own Story program and others benefiting from Makor’s wide range of audio books, and the pick-up and delivery service. Fleiszig said the library is always looking at extending its work with the
elderly, and is currently in discussion with Jewish Care to run the Write Your Own Story program with the residents at Gary Smorgon House. Extending the audio book and Yiddish sections are also priorities.
In addition to holding the catalogues of the Jewish Historical and Genealogical societies, Makor also collaborates with major libraries in Victoria and beyond, which coordinate their databases with Makor’s. Fleizsig said many council and public libraries also refer people to Makor when looking for specific Jewish items.
To donate, call Makor on (03) 9272 5611; fax (03) 9272 5629; or email info@makorlibrary.com.
DALIA SABLE
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