(Courtesy of JBI Library) JBI Library, a Jewish organization that for nearly a century has been supporting individuals who are blind, have low vision or print disabilities, has announced a new name and look, reflecting its expanding array of services, programs and materials for people who wish to fully participate in, and feel connected to, Jewish culture, education and religious practice.
Established as the Jewish Braille Institute in 1931, and more recently known as JBI and JBI International, JBI Library will continue to support its patrons with free braille, large print and audio materials. The official addition of “library” to its name reflects how it will now serve as a hub of community that provides a wide range of fully inclusive cultural and educational programming; actively cultivates partnerships with a wide range of accessibility focused, vision and Jewish organizations; and curates an ever-growing library, customized materials and personal services by librarians.
“As JBI Library, we proudly join with libraries of today that share so much more than just the books on their shelves — they serve at the heart of many communities. We seek to be a place of connection, engagement and education,” said JBI Executive Director Livia Thompson. “The values embodied by JBI Library — access, bridge-building, caring, Jewish living, representation and respect — guide our unwavering commitment to inclusion and removing all barriers to accessibility and support full participation in Jewish life.” (An audio/video message from Thompson can also be accessed at jbilibrary.org/our-brand.)
Chief Operating Officer Rabbi Andrew Goodman added, “In moving forward as JBI Library, we remain committed to technological enhancements and improved staff resources. We’re currently in the process, for example, of revamping our website with enhanced functionality and user experience. Greater investment in technology is one of many ways in which we’re hoping to connect with even more individuals who could benefit from our services.”
In honor of February’s designation as Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month, JBI and collaborating organizations will be hosting a free, accessible and virtual gathering of professionals entitled “Making Jewish Life Accessible: A Virtual Convening,” on Feb. 27 that will explore how those in the space can collaborate, support and inspire each other to advance the goal of making Jewish life more accessible to those with disabilities. (More information can be found at jbilibrary.org/JDAIMConvening.)
The new JBI Library logo, inspired by a combination of the Star of David, the color blue traditionally associated with Judaism, and the pages of a book in motion, is a powerful representation of the organization’s mission, evoking Jewish identity and progress. It honors JBI’s founding heritage and its deep roots in Jewish values of tradition and inclusion, as well as its role as a provider of books and materials and its evolution as a vibrant hub of connection and innovation.
To learn more, visit www.jbilibrary.org or contact JBI’s librarians at (212) 545-8025 or (800) 433-1531.
