Dear friends, Matchless collections, a rich array of cultural and educational initiatives and partnerships, professional collaborations, innovative digital programs, an iconic new home in Jerusalem – this is the National Library of Israel of the 21st century. The renewed National Library of Israel (NLI) ensures that Israelis, Jews, and citizens of the world can be enriched and inspired by the Library and its treasures like never before. In fall 2023, the National Library of Israel (NLI) was focused on completing construction of our new building and campus, moving the entirety of NLI’s staff and collections, and preparing for the opening festivities. The horrific events of October 7th prompted an immediate pivot in terms of plans and priorities. Since then, in the shadow of terror and war, the Library has mobilized to help the people of Israel and the Jewish people through this painful period in our nation’s history. NLI has proven to be a source of inspiration and model of resilience, working to fortify the spirit of those most impacted by the war, as well as to strengthen all of Israel’s people and Jewish communities worldwide. The Library has also assumed heightened importance as the leader of the Bearing Witness project—a national and international initiative to comprehensively document October 7th and its aftermath. Bearing Witness constitutes a crucial repository of historical records, cultural artifacts, and narratives - essential today and in the long-term for understanding this tumultuous period and the ways it will continue to reverberate through the region and the world. The October 2023 opening of the new Library building, the product of a 15-year process of renewal, introduced exciting opportunities for expanding our reach and developing in new directions. The Library’s unprecedented public presence and role is an affirmation of its enduring mission: When Israel feels divided, in a year when we have been torn apart by terror, loss, and war, we need unifying institutions like NLI more than ever. It is our honor and privilege, especially this year, to serve as the National Library of the people of Israel and the Jewish people worldwide, in all their diversity. Though the war continues and NLI is prioritizing addressing its attendant challenges, we are investing in charting a course for the future, to ensure NLI remains a center of excellence, scholarship, inclusion, and inspiration. We are grateful to have you as partners on this journey.
With wishes for peaceful days ahead and the full and safe return home of Israel’s hostages, civilians, and soldiers,
Sallai Meridor
Oren Weinberg
Chairman of the Board
Chief Executive Officer
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