Libraries in the Jewish Settlements in Argentina

Abstract

In the late nineteenth century and beginning of the twentieth century, Jewish immigrants took, when possible, from the Russian empire to their new destinations their dearest possessions. One of these was their books. Religious and prayer books represented the knowledge sages and rabbis had passed from generation to generation to their people. Belle lettres and political books in different languages were an important part of their education, upbringing, and ideology. These collections were the start of the libraries at the Jewish settlements in Argentina. Based on published memoirs of these first settlers this article presents how these libraries were created and notes a pattern of similarities on how they became a space to share books, to socialize, to enjoy cultural events, including readings and discussions of Yiddish and European masterpieces as well as musical and theatrical evenings, and to promote political beliefs.