Not just a bunch of books

Yesterday a group of us from Beit Knesset Hanassi had the pleasure of touring the new home of the National Library of Israel in Jerusalem—and it was an unforgettable experience. More than just a building full of books, the Library is a celebration of history, culture, and innovation, open to all. The new library building, was opened as recently as 2023 and is located opposite the Knesset. It is a striking piece of architecture. Designed to blend modern design with ancient inspiration, it feels both open and grounded, with natural Jerusalem stone and sweeping views of the city. What really impressed us, though, was how environmentally thoughtful the entire structure is.

One of the most fascinating features is the Library's air-conditioning system. Instead of using standard air units, it uses a unique system that draws in cool air from underground, helping regulate temperature with much less energy. This system is not only clever but also helps protect the Library's priceless collections from sudden changes in heat and humidity—essential for preserving rare manuscripts, ancient scrolls, and delicate documents. The building also makes use of natural light through large windows and skylights, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Solar panels provide clean energy, and rainwater collection systems help keep the grounds green even in dry seasons.

Inside, the Library is home to millions of items in dozens of languages: books, maps, newspapers, photographs, and more. There are treasures like medieval manuscripts (including an ancient manuscript of the Rambam’s Mishneh Torah), early editions of Hebrew texts, and archives of famous writers, musicians, and thinkers. But it's not just about the past—there are vibrant displays, digital tools, and inviting spaces for reading, learning, and discussion.

What stood out most was the welcoming atmosphere. The Library is designed for everyone: students, scholars, tourists, and locals alike. Whether you’re researching family history, curious about Jewish culture, looking for a quiet spot to reflect or simply looking for somewhere to sit down with a cup of coffee, there’s a place for you here. Our tour guide reminded us that libraries are not just about storing knowledge—they’re about sharing it. The National Library of Israel does this beautifully, bridging generations and communities while caring deeply for the world we live in.

Thanks go to the Women’s League for organizing this fascinating excursion, and particularly to Shirley March and Gitta Neufeld for shouldering the organizational burden. We wish them hatzlachah rabbah with all their future ventures and look very much forward to the next time we board a bus in eager anticipation of the delights they have in store for us.