An opportunity to deepen connections to Jewish heritage, culture, and contemporary thought
A new initiative of the Konikoff Center for Learning of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, the Great Jewish Bookshelf invites Jewish adults—or anyone interested in the Jewish experience—on a literary journey, from the comfort of their home. This subscription-based program offers a unique way to engage with Jewish life by delivering handpicked Jewish books directly to doorsteps every two months.
What is the Great Jewish Bookshelf?
The Great Jewish Bookshelf is a carefully curated collection of Jewish literature designed to enrich an understanding of Jewish history, spirituality, and contemporary culture. The program offers subscribers six books per year, thoughtfully chosen to resonate with a variety of interests. From compelling fiction to deep historical narratives and thought-provoking explorations of Jewish philosophy, each book serves as a gateway to a richer understanding of Jewish life.
Why subscribe?
In today’s fast-paced world, many are seeking meaningful ways to connect with their Jewish identity. Whether looking for spiritual inspiration, a deeper understanding of Jewish history, or simply an engaging story with Jewish themes, the Great Jewish Bookshelf offers an option.
How the program works
Starting in January 2025, subscribers will be able to choose from three categories— Fiction, History/Non-Fiction, and Jewish Thought—every two months. Once the selection is made, books can either be picked up at the Simon Family JCC or delivered to the subscriber’s home.
For $60 per year (or $78 for home delivery), subscribers will receive six books over the course of 12 months. The flexibility to switch between categories ensures that reading choices align with personal interests, while the affordable subscription offers great value. If the subscriber has already read the available selections for a given month, they can opt to gift a book to someone else or receive the latest edition of Sources: A Journal of Jewish Ideas—a thought- provoking print journal from the Shalom Hartman Institute.
A literary community
In addition to receiving high-quality Jewish literature, subscribing to the Great Jewish Bookshelf offers the chance to build community by connecting with other subscribers reading the same book, creating opportunities for discussion and deeper engagement.
The Great Jewish Bookshelf’s subscription page goes live on November 1. Get ready to enhance connections to Jewish life—one book at a time.
For more information or to subscribe, visit JewishVA.org/KCL or contact Sierra Lautman at SLautman@UJFT.org.