Jerusalem's Cultural Heritage: The Rise of the National Library
Since its inauguration in 1965, the Israel Museum has proudly stood as a beacon of culture and heritage in Jerusalem. However, with the recent opening of the National Library in October 2023, the city now boasts two remarkable jewels in its cultural crown. The National Library, which predates the Israel Museum and the Hebrew University, has a rich history dating back to 1892 when it started as the B’nai B’rith Library on Ethiopia Street. Over the years, it underwent several relocations, eventually finding its home within the Hebrew University on Mount Scopus. However, during the tumultuous War of Independence, access to Mount Scopus became impossible, prompting a move to the Terra Sancta compound. After a few years, the library relocated once more to the Givat Ram campus of the Hebrew University, officially adopting the name National Library of Israel and removing the association with Hebrew University.
A significant milestone in the library's journey was the cornerstone-laying ceremony for its permanent building, which took place a decade ago and attracted prominent figures from all over Israel, including notable foreign benefactors like Sir Jacob Rothschild and David Sanford Gottesman, both of whom have a long-standing legacy of supporting the Zionist cause. During this event, I had the opportunity to interview Sandy Gottesman, who, despite his billionaire status, presented himself as a humble and approachable individual. In the luxurious setting of the King David Hotel, Sandy and his wife Ruth generously offered an assortment of nuts—a gesture that reflected their down-to-earth nature. Sadly, Sandy passed away in 2022, just shy of what would have been his 100th birthday.
Impact of Philanthropy on Education and Cultural Identity
Ruth Gottesman, who inherited a substantial fortune, contemplated how to utilize her wealth for the greater good. Recognizing the challenges faced by aspiring medical students from underprivileged backgrounds, she made a monumental decision to donate a billion dollars to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, aimed at abolishing tuition fees. This transformative gift allows students to pursue their medical careers without the burden of financial debt, enabling them to serve in communities where their skills are needed most. The impact of this donation is profound, as it opens doors for many talented individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford medical education.
This year also marks the 90th anniversary of public broadcasting in Israel, alongside the 60th anniversary of the now-defunct Educational Television (ETV) station. Throughout this year, KAN has dedicated much of its programming to honoring the legacy of Israeli broadcasting, featuring nostalgic interviews with iconic figures from various media outlets. The celebration provides a unique opportunity for the public to reconnect with the rich history of Israeli media, including archival footage that serves as a testament to the evolution of broadcasting in the country.
Furthermore, the cultural significance of the Mimouna festival, which celebrates the Moroccan Jewish heritage, has become a national event in Israel. Originally celebrated in the Musrara neighborhood, the festival has grown too large for its initial location, necessitating a move to Sacher Park, where it now attracts vast crowds eager to partake in the communal feast. This transformation highlights the integration of cultural traditions within the broader Israeli society, showcasing how diverse backgrounds contribute to the nation’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
As reported by jpost.com.
