History of the JTSA Library
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The JTSA's magnificent library was founded in 1893. Dr. Alexander Marx,
head librarian from 1903-1953, was the single individual who built the
library's outstanding collection of books and manuscripts into what it
is today. The library continues to grow, dedicating itself to the preservation
of the works which encompass the tales of Jewish life and making those
works available to all who wish to study them (JTSA Library, 1). However,
this goal was almost stopped short by a fire which almost destroyed the
library on April 18, 1966. Over 70,000 books were destroyed and almost
all of the other volumes were damaged in some way. Fortunately, the manuscript
collection was spared due to the fact that it was housed elsewhere. On
July 5, 1983, after almost two decades, a new library building was completed.
At present, the library houses one-half million books and has enough space
for three-hundred people to study and read. It contains both a microfilm
center and an audio-visual center, as well as a rare book room on the top
floor, which houses the manuscript collection. When attempting to view
this colllection, one would be well-advised to call in advance to make
an appointment to speak with someone, making sure to arrive knowing exactly
which manuscripts one wants to see. Otherwise, the people staffing the
library may not be able to be very helpful.
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Site Author: Aaron Herman, Project for "Introduction to
Medieval History", Fordham University, Spring 1997
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© Site Concept and Design: Paul Halsall created 26 Jan 1996: latest revision 12 April 2024 [CV]
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