In 1956, the A. E. Lessy Memorial Library was established in the Ohev Sholom Synagogue Center in Chester. It was the result of the efforts of Rose Isaacson and then Rabbi Ira Sud. The library was started with a single donation of $1500 and 200 books by R. Paul Lessy. It’s first home was a former broom closet.

With the move to Wallingford, the library was given a much larger space and rededicated as the Ray Doblitz Memorial Library. Under Rose’s dedicated leadership, the collection grew to include over 5000 volumes, as well as hundreds of videos and tapes. Today, the collection also includes CDs and DVDs. In addition, we subscribe to a number of Jewish newspapers and periodicals.

On Sunday mornings, the children in the primary grades of the Mispallelim school are treated to story time in the Library. They are encouraged to check out books from the collection. Volunteers read to the children and help them check out their books.

The Library is not included in the synagogue budget. It’s income is derived from interest from the Ray Doblitz Library Fund and donations made to the Rose Isaacson Library Account. Donations can be made through the Ohev donation page.

The Library is generally accessible during the week. It is staffed on Sunday mornings from 9 am –12:00 pm. A system is in place to allow checkouts on Shabbat.

If you have a question about the Library or wish to volunteer to help out, please contact Amy Graham, Library Chairwoman.