There’s a lot to celebrate in May - spring flowers, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and, for the past 19 years, Jewish American Heritage Month. Following a concerted effort by Jewish leaders to establish a national celebration acknowledging Jewish American contributions to the United States, the monthlong annual holiday was finally inaugurated in 2006 through the bi-partisan efforts of Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) and the late Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania and recognized by a Congressional Resolution and a Presidential Proclamation on April 20, 2006. President Bush's Proclamation read: “During Jewish American Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history of the Jewish people in America and honor the great contributions they have made to our country.” Why May? The month was chosen because it coincided with the May, 2004, celebration of the 350th anniversary of the arrival of the first Jews to New Amsterdam in 1654. This meaningful springtime celebration gives us all a chance to reflect on Jewish resilience and accomplishments while promoting understanding and inclusion across all communities. Click here to learn more from the government Jewish American Heritage Month website; and click here to find unique ways to celebrate Jewish heritage. Finally, click on the book jackets below for catalog links to relevant and fascinating books in our catalog. L’Chaim!
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” Albert Einstein
“I marvel at the resilience of the Jewish people. Their best characteristic is their desire to remember. No other people has such an obsession with memory.” Elie Wiesel
Last Modified May 24, 2025