Have you seen some of the cool events put on by PJ Library? Have you always wondered how your child can get a PJ Library book? We sat down with Mayerson JCC PJ Library Professional Marisa Phillips to learn more!
Tell me about PJ Library. What is its purpose?
PJ Library is a program started by Harold Grinspoon that is modeled after Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program. Every month, PJ sends out free Jewish children’s books to kids ages 11 and under that are age appropriate for the child and are holiday- or Jewish-values-focused. In addition, I create monthly or bimonthly programming that is open to all families that are raising their children with Jewish values.
Locally, the program is done in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, with generous support from Anne Heldman, the Fisher Family (Founding Sponsor), and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. That funding allows families to receive books and attend events at no cost.
How do you see it helping the children and families in the community?
PJ Library brings Judaism into people’s homes and into their lives in a low-barrier way. By receiving the books at home, families are invited to experience and share the books and their messages within their comfort level. The program sparks meaningful conversation and provides opportunities to explore and celebrate Jewish life together.
PJ Library welcomes the incredible diversity of Jewish experience. We’re proud to be part of a community that includes families of all backgrounds, of single or multiple faiths, and at all levels of Jewish knowledge and observance.
Can you tell me about some of the events? How do they bring people together?
Most recently, PJ Library, in partnership with Camp at the J, celebrated Earth Day. We read a PJ Library book called 10 Things I Can Do to Help My World and then we glazed rainbow piggy banks. Many of our events incorporate elements of an upcoming Jewish holiday and give families an opportunity to connect with each other.
What is your favorite aspect of PJ Library?
My favorite part of PJ Library is when I am reading books to the kiddos in the JCC’s Early Childhood School and they get so excited that they have the books at home, too!
Sign up today at www.pjlibrary.org to start your PJ Library journey!
