Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
Jewish American Heritage Month is celebrated every May. Learn about the history and rich culture of Jewish Americans by reading about notable Jewish Americans, attending Library events, and reading staff-recommended books.
Featured People
Explore displays across CHPL’s 41 locations featuring three notable Jewish Americans.
Having earned a doctorate in electrical engineering, Judith Resnik was among NASA’s first class of female astronauts in 1978. In 1984, she became the first Jewish American woman to make a space flight. On Jan. 28, 1986, Resnik died alongside other crew members aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger when it broke apart after liftoff at the Kennedy Space Center. Resnik was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.
R.L. Stine is the author of Goosebumps, a popular horror fiction series for children. The series, which has been adapted for both television and film, has sold over 400 million copies globally. Stine grew up in Bexley, Ohio to a Jewish family.
American comic book writer Jerome “Jerry” Siegel is the co-creator of Superman, alongside Joe Shuster. Born in Cleveland, Ohio to Lithuanian Jewish immigrants, Siegel was inducted into the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame in 1992 and the Jack Kirby Hall of Fame in ‘93.
Visit the Holocaust & Humanity Center with Discovery Pass
Visit The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center for free with the Library's Discovery Pass to experience the stories of local Holocaust survivors.
To get a Discovery Pass, log in at CHPL.org/discovery-pass with your Library card and select the Holocaust & Humanity Center. Make your reservation and print or download your pass before your visit.
Featured Event
In partnership with the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Pleasant Ridge Branch is hosting Cincinnati’s Jewish Heritage on Monday, May 4 at 6:30 p.m. Journey through the history of Jewish congregational life in Cincinnati over the past two centuries.
Recommended Reading and Viewing
Take in Jewish American stories and history with books and movies recommended by CHPL’s librarians.
Ranging from established, award-winning directors to indie creators, Criterion DVD releases offer an abundance of extras for the cinema fan.
A compelling collection of teen reads that highlight Jewish voices through stories of heritage, resilience, identity, and community.
A heartwarming collection of picture books celebrating Jewish Heritage Month through stories of tradition, family, culture, and joy.
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