Almost everyday I am thanked for "the books". Part of my job as the Director of Jewish Family Life is to oversee the The PJ Library program in the Greater Palm Beaches. The PJ Library program sends FREE Jewish books and music to children ages 6 months-6 years. So, to over 1200 children (about 1000 families) I am "the book lady". The reality is that, the books come from a centralized distribution center in Western Massachusetts via the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Most of the books, I never even get to see. In my own household, my youngest daughter receives the age 6 year old books which we adore.
So, while I am appreciative of these emails, calls and stops in Publix to thank me for the "books", it is the "beyond the books" stuff that really gets me excited. It's when I hear how a family's connection to a story has enticed them to start celebrating a Jewish holiday at home or looking into Jewish preschools for their child. The PJ Library is truly a family engagement program that acts as the start of family's Jewish journey. It's hearing these types of stories that really tell me that we are a success.
So, as I help families go "beyond the books", new challenges and opportunities have come up. How do I serve all these institutions and families from Boynton Beach to Martin County by myself? How can I be everywhere? Have no fear, there is a plan, and it is good. We here at the Commission for Jewish Education will soon be unveiling a major initiative to best serve young Jewish Families in our community. It is exciting, it is BIG and of course, it is costly. But most importantly, it is what is truly needed. So, I feel confident that the same kind of true philanthropists and forward thinkers who helped make the PJ Library program a reality for us will make this possible too.
At this time, I challenge our families to continue to reach out to the Jewish Family Life department here at the CJE and to stay tuned for what will be the NEXT BIG thing in going "beyond the books" for you and your family.
Amy Bergman
561.209.2608
