The Baltimore County Public Library system is a frequent hub for events celebrating different cultures. And this May, to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, the BCPL is holding several Jewish-themed events at its locations throughout the county. These range from interactive demonstrations to concerts, directed at everyone from young children to adults.
Here is a sneak peek at the library system’s offerings for Jewish American Heritage Month.
Jewish Paper Cutting
Saturday, May 4, 11-11:30 a.m. — Owings Mills Branch
Friday, May 31, 4-4:30 p.m. — North Point Branch
Jewish paper cutting is an art form that dates back centuries and has been practiced by Ashkenazi, Sephardic and North African Jews alike. While the practice was in danger of disappearing in the early 20th century due to the Holocaust and paper cutting artists aging and dying, it has recently grown in popularity. This class aims to teach tweens and children aged 9-13 about the history of Jewish paper cutting, and guide them in making their own paper cuts.
Author Mari Lowe Presentation
Tuesday, May 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m. — Pikesville Branch, virtual
Join award-winning middle-grade fiction author Mari Lowe, author of books based around Jewish culture such as “Aviva vs. the Dybbuk” and “The Dubious Pranks of Shaindy Goodman.” Lowe will talk about her writing process, culture and career as a middle school teacher at an Orthodox school. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. This author talk will also be live-streamed online for anyone who cannot attend in person.
Synagogue Stories: On the Road With the Jewish Museum of Maryland
Monday, May 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m. — Owings Mills Branch
The Jewish Museum of Maryland will be screening its documentary “Synagogue Stories,” about Lloyd Street Synagogue and B’nai Israel and their many congregants over the years. A museum representative will provide additional history and context following the viewing, and there will also be a Q&A for interested viewers.
Seth Kibel in Concert
Thursday, May 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m. — Owings Mills Branch
Jazz, swing and klezmer musician Seth Kibel will be performing some of the best of the genres he specializes in. Kibel is a saxophonist, clarinetist and flutist and will be performing on all instruments during the concert. An award-winning musician, he is also the leader of the regional klezmer band The Kleztet and has performed with musical groups such as The Natty Beaux and Bay Jazz Project.
The Healthy Jewish Kitchen with Chef Paula Shoyer
Wednesday, May 29, 6:30-7:30 p.m. — Pikesville Branch
Jewish food doesn’t have to be heavy or unhealthy. Join “The Kosher Baker” and cookbook author Paula Shoyer as she teaches healthier ways to prepare classic Jewish dishes, including a Georgian beet and quinoa salad and a tzimmes puree. Shoyer will be signing books following the class.
Artist Roy Lichtenstein
Thursday, May 30, 6-7 p.m. — Owings Mills Branch
In this class for tweens and teens, learn about legendary Jewish artist Roy Lichtenstein, creator of some of the most iconic pieces of the pop art movement. While he may have been criticized in his own time, his art style has an enduring legacy. Then, try creating a portrait of your own in his style.
Games Connecting Cultures: Mahjong
Thursday, May 30, 6-7 p.m. — Essex Branch
In a special edition of this class about games around the world, learn about mahjong’s history in the Jewish American community and beyond. Then, compete against others after a demonstration on the game’s rules.
