JBI Library Calls Volunteers to Become Accessibility Ambassadors in Jewish Communities Nationwide

The organization’s Ambassador Program is a grassroots initiative that empowers volunteers to share information about JBI Library’s free, accessible library and cultural programs with organizations and individuals in their own communities. The Ambassadors, who will receive training, outreach templates, disability awareness guidance, and ongoing support from JBI librarians, will help ensure that as many people as possible benefit from JBI’s accessible Jewish materials and resources and know they are available at no cost.

Volunteers can participate at whatever level fits their schedule, making phone calls, sending emails, scheduling brief conversations, or visiting local organizations such as synagogues, JCCs, senior residences, nursing homes, hospitals, rehab centers, Jewish schools, and other community institutions. No prior experience is required.

“Awareness remains one of our biggest challenges,” said Michelle Shapiro Abraham, JBI’s Executive Director. “Every day we hear from patrons who tell us that JBI restored their ability to learn, pray, or feel connected to Jewish life. This program gives volunteers a meaningful way to help us reach people who are still unaware that these free, meaningful services exist.”

Founded nearly a century ago, JBI Library serves people who are blind, have low vision, or have difficulty reading standard print by providing more than 16,000 Jewish-interest titles in audio, braille, and large print, along with free cultural and educational programming. These offerings include materials to support participation in Shabbat and holidays, book groups, foreign-language materials, Judaism 101 courses, author talks, poetry readings, and other events that foster learning and connection.

For many people, vision loss, physical disabilities, or reading disabilities can lead to isolation from Jewish life. As life expectancy increases, age-related vision conditions and physical limitations are becoming more common, making accessible formats and inclusive programming increasingly essential.

“In this world, we depend on community,” said Jill Rothstein, JBI’s Head Librarian. “The JBI Ambassador Program allows us to live out that value by building connections, community by community, and reaching people who may otherwise feel cut off from Jewish learning and culture.”

The program is open to adults, teens, and community groups, including those seeking meaningful service or B’nai Mitzvah projects. Ambassadors may volunteer from anywhere in the U.S. or abroad.

Get Involved

Volunteers will receive training, access to outreach materials, and ongoing support from JBI librarians.  Registration site: JBI Volunteer Registration Form

• Questions – email: volunteer@jbilibrary.org or phone: 646-616-3929 or connect with JBI Outreach Specialist Roslyn Biskin at rbiskin@jbilibrary.org or JBI Librarian Jill Rothstein at jrothstein@jbilibrary.org