The Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County’s Sandra Wainer Memorial Fund for The PJ Library was formed by her family to help strengthen Jewish identity in young children through books and reading. Sandra Wainer was a teacher who was passionate about the value of reading with young children. Through this fund the Federation is able to offer FREE 2-year subscriptions for children between the ages of 6 months to 6 years who live in Middlesex County, with the option to renew your child’s subscription in subsequent years.   (Those wishing to purchase a gift subscription for a child living outside of Middlesex County may do so directly through the PJ Library website.)

PJ stands for pajamas because those special times for reading, snuggling, singing and dancing together often occur at bedtime.  Each child who enrolls in the PJ Library program will receive a high-quality age appropriate Jewish book or CD each month.  The gift of stories and song is sure to enrich the entire family’s Jewish journey.  Book topics include holidays, traditions, family values, Jewish identity and Jewish heroes.  The books are carefully selected by top national Jewish educators, with an eye on books that are joyful, engaging, and representative of the best Jewish children’s literature available.   Each book also comes with an informative guide for the parent to use to enhance the reading experience with their child.

Beyond the Books

In addition to the books, Federation sponsors monthly PJ Library e-newsletters and programs.  The e-newsletters include links to timely seasonal information and topics of concern to Jewish parents today. The age-appropriate family programs are designed to compliment the book selections that your children receive and include storytelling, crafts, music, and more.  They take place at a variety of settings around the county including public libraries, synagogues, schools, and more.  Refer to your e-newsletter or check our Community Calendar  for upcoming events.