The Jewish studies reading room, named for the late SFSU education professor Marvin Silverman, was officially opened under its new title during a dedication ceremony Nov. 30. As both a founder of the SFSU Jewish studies program and a former BJE board member, Silverman seemed a perfect choice for the commemoration. It only seemed right and appropriate to name the room after him. Close to 100 people attended the ceremony, participating in both a reception and dedication. The reading room includes academic, reference and historical books on Jewish subjects, including texts of talmudic and Jewish law, histories of Israel written in Hebrew, books on historic Jews of America, facsimiles of early editions of the talmud and encyclopedias, and the Encyclopedia Judaica.
Books are only available for in-house use.
And while the room is open to the public, its primary target is the 250 to 300 students enrolled in the Jewish studies program. It's a wonderful resource for those interested in studying Judaism, right here on campus. The room is furnished with tables, chairs and a couch. There's nothing warmer than books. Not only do they speak to the practical issues of teaching and learning, but in a very deep way, they also speak to our culture and the psychological roots of Judaism.