Prez returns library book 40 years late

Reuven Rivlin found 19th-century siddur, checked out at least four decades ago, in the synagogue of his official residence

President Reuven Rivlin Monday returned to the National Library a 200-year-old prayer book found at his residence that had seemingly been taken out at least 40 years ago.

Rivlin was hosting the inaugural meeting of the Global Forum of The National Library of Israel when he surprised attendees by producing a library book he had found in the synagogue of the President’s Residence.

The siddur, “Birat Migdal Oz” (Tower of Strength), was written by Rabbi Yaakov Emden in Germany in the early 19th century. It was checked out of the library at least 40 years ago, a spokesperson at the President’s Residence said.

Rivlin entered the President’s Residence in July, after Shimon Peres ended his seven-year term.

In his address to library and forum members, the president emphasized the importance of combating forgetfulness and preserving memory in recording the history of the Jewish people.

“When we think about the future of the National Library and the challenges ahead, there will certainly be a need for assistance, guidance and advice from the members of this important forum, in setting policy and best practices for conservation, and preservation of memory in the digital age,” Rivlin said.

The forum was established to discuss the connections between Jewish literature and sacred texts and the collective identity of the Jewish people.