As Far As Their Books Reach: Jewish Printing and the Global Jewish Diaspora
An online exhibition of books from
Special Collections, Western Libraries Heritage Resources,
Western Washington University
Introduction
Judaism is a civilization built on the written word.
For over two thousand years, texts have connected Jewish communities across generations and across the Diaspora. Where Jews have gone, Jewish books have followed. This becomes vividly evident in the age of the printing press, when the reach of texts increases exponentially.
If you want to trace patterns of migration and settlement in the modern period, follow the books. If you want to trace the intellectual and cultural development of the Jewish people, follow the books. To observe continuity and change? Rupture and reconstruction? Follow the books.
In 2018, Western Libraries negotiated the transfer of over 3,000 volumes of Judaica, as part of its efforts to support emerging areas of study and diverse voices on campus. The material acquired spans five centuries and six continents, and includes the Edward S. Setchko Holocaust Collection. Together this material comprises the greater part of Heritage Resources' new collections in Judaica and Holocaust & Genocide Studies.
As Far as Their Books Reach is Western Libraries' first major exhibition of Judaica. The exhibit provides an introduction to the Jewish textual tradition, and visitors are invited to trace the physical, intellectual, and cultural journeys of the Jewish people in the Diaspora — to follow the books.
Credits
Exhibition curated by David Schlitt, Special Collections Manager, with assistance from Grafton Grimm (WWU '23).
This exhibit is co-sponsored by Western Libraries Heritage Resources and The Ray Wolpow Institute for the Study of the Holocaust, Genocide, and Crimes Against Humanity.
Content Warning
This exhibition contains images that some viewers may find disturbing. Western Libraries Heritage Resources aims to foster academic dialogue and contextualize its collections of historical material in a respectful manner. We welcome feedback on any issues of concern, and you can write to us at speccoll@wwu.edu.