Celebrate a Bar Mitzvah / Bat Mitzvah at the Library

Make your child’s bar or bat mitzvah truly memorable by celebrating this milestone at the National Library of Israel. Located in the heart of Jerusalem in Kiryat Haleum (National Quarter) across from the Knesset, the Library offers a rich and inspiring venue filled with Jewish history, culture, and heritage. Home to the collective story of the Jewish people, it is the perfect place to mark your child’s connection to Jewish tradition as they embark into Jewish adulthood. With its incredible collection of books, manuscripts, maps, music, archives, and more, the Library weaves together the past, present, and future. There is also a special opportunity for your child to contribute to the Library’s collections and have their bar or bat mitzvah become part of the ongoing story of our people!

The program includes: 

  • A special tour led by professional Library guides (1.5 hours) 
    • An opportunity for the bar or bat mitzvah celebrant to participate in leading the tour
    • Two personalized preparation sessions with a Library guide (1 hour each) held at the Library or on Zoom based on your preference 
  • An option to hold a prayer service and/or ceremony in the Wohl Synagogue in the Library
  • An option to include a festive meal
Credit: Zvi Popovich
Credit: Zvi Popovich
Display stations in the permanent exhibition

Personalized Tour

Meaningful Moments for Your Family and Guests

Enhance your bar or bat mitzvah celebration with a personalized tour of the National Library of Israel’s permanent exhibition: A Treasury of Words. This interactive experience connects your family and guests to Jewish heritage, bringing history to life through an experiential program. To make it even more special, the bar or bat mitzvah celebrant can guide one of the stops on the tour! A Library educator will help them explore a selected topic, thus deepening their connection to tradition and empowering them to share their knowledge with their loved ones.

"The Wohl Synagogue at the National Library, featuring a parochet of cascading fabric drops in shifting shades."

The Wohl Synagogue

Spiritual and Serene

The Wohl Synagogue at the National Library of Israel offers a tranquil and welcoming space for your family’s celebration, which can accommodate approximately 100 people. The combination of the vaulted ceiling and skylight filling the room with natural light and the colorful cover of the ark creates a breathtaking atmosphere. Light wood furnishings are arranged around a central bimah with an option for a partition that provides clear sight lines. Celebrating this special event at the Library is an opportunity to honor this moment in a setting that embodies the values of learning, tradition, and Jewish continuity.

Tables set for a festive meal in the library courtyard

Reception

Exceptional Flavors in a Literary Atmosphere

The National Library of Israel offers exceptional catering options designed for small to medium-sized family gatherings (up to 120 guests). Our catering partners offer kosher menus that cater to every taste, from traditional Israeli flavors to contemporary cuisine. Whether a seated meal, buffet service, or light refreshments, we will work with you to create a dining experience that is just right for your celebration. Events can be hosted in the Library’s elegant indoor spaces or in a charming outdoor garden setting, adding the perfect touch to your special day.

Your Story – Our Story

Make Your Story Part of the National Library of Israel’s Collections

Make your family’s bar or bat mitzvah celebration a part of history by contributing an item from your event to the National Library of Israel’s collection. Be it a speech or invitation, your contribution will be preserved as part of the Library’s archives – a meaningful addition to the ongoing story of the Jewish people. This unique opportunity ensures your family’s milestone is remembered and shared with future generations. By adding your voice to this collective heritage, you will create a legacy while deepening your connection to the rich tapestry of Jewish tradition.

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For further information contact the Library's information center by email at [email protected] or by phone at *5049.

Gifts in Honor of B’nei and B’not Mitzvah

Support the vital work of the National Library of Israel by making a meaningful gift in honor of your child’s bar or bat mitzvah. You might also consider inviting your friends and family to make a gift to the National Library of Israel to honor your child. Donations help preserve priceless treasures, promote educational initiatives, and ensure that knowledge and culture remain accessible for generations to come.

To explore opportunities to support the Library’s mission, please contact Jackie Frankel, Manager of International Resource Development:  [email protected]