By COLlive reporter
Looking for a way to foster a love of reading in your children? Looking for a library where you don’t have to scrutinize and censor the books?
You’ll find your answers right here in Crown Heights: The All My Children Bookmobile.
The bookmobile is the brainchild of Mrs. Orli Dubov, a transplant from Bnei Brak. An educator with 8 children of her own, Dubov sets high standards for every book she accepts into their collection.
“We now have almost 800 members and 4,000 titles to choose from,” Dubov is proud to claim. “There’s a demand for suitable books for our community’s children. A Yiddishe book keeps the child’s neshama focused.”
Support for the bookmobile was provided by All My Children Daycare and the library-on-wheels is staffed by librarian Adira Shakhnovich and driver Naftali Sirota.
“And for behind the scene support,” Dubov said, “I gratefully rely on Rabbi Ofer Shaked and Shneur Friedman.”
Israel-based author Sara-Ester Varnai visited Crown Heights for her grandson’s wedding a few months ago and was pleasantly delighted to discover “this very colorful, attractive bookmobile parked alongside the sidewalk.”
“My curiosity was piqued,” says Varnai, who recently authored the children’s book ‘At Masada’. “I went inside and was amazed by the array of books lining the shelves and the assortment of children eagerly pouring over them.”
“I met with Mrs. Dubov and the librarian and was so impressed with their genuine love of children and their desire to see all children fulfill their potential – through reading. They empower children with knowledge,” Varnai told COLlive.com.
In appreciation for their work, Varnai gifted the bookmobile a copy of her new book, At Masada, which is the first in a series of historical novels intended to educate and inspire children about the Land of Israel.
The bookmobile charges a minimal charge of $25 for a whole family for a whole year. Each family member can take out a book for 2 weeks. The books range in suitability from 18-month-old babies to adults!
“Almost every parent who comes with their child ends up taking a book for themselves too!” laughed Dubov.
“It’s great seeing the kids getting into reading,” exclaims Shakhnovich. “They’re excited to get new books each week.”
For scheduling and street locations, visit AMCBookmobile.com or call 516-900-2620
Our whole family loves At Masada!! Such a great book!!! The perfect way for our children to learn about our Land’s history!
My children love the bookmobile and the great librarian Adira! Best ever!
From Talia
Go Adira!! – mispacha Baez