Why We Love the Library
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Susan Douglass won the Love Your Library promotion.The Scarsdale Public Library is thrilled to announce the winner of this year’s Love Your Library promotion! Congratulations to Susan Douglass, a devoted library patron, local author, and an active member of the Scarsdale community.
Each year, the Love Your Library promotion highlights the incredible support and enthusiasm of our community, and we are deeply grateful for everyone who shared their experiences. We were especially touched by the stories about our friendly and dedicated staff, reinforcing the library’s role as a welcoming hub for learning and connection.
Upon learning she had won, Susan remarked, “It’s not the Scarsdale Bowl, but it’s up there!” A longtime library supporter, Susan has not only presented at the library to discuss her published work, Barb’s Story, but is also currently working on her next novel about ballerinas. She expressed special gratitude to the reference librarians, whose expertise has helped her access resources to authentically depict the settings and themes in her latest writing.
Beyond research, Susan enjoys attending the library’s diverse programs, exploring local history exhibits, and utilizing study rooms for her writing. Having witnessed the library’s transformation over the years, she deeply appreciates all it offers as a vital community institution.
As the winner, Susan received a selection of handcrafted items from the library’s Makerspace, including a custom tote bag, a wooden storage box, a 3D-printed figure, a zipper pouch, and a personalized mug. Residents interested in exploring their own creativity can learn more about the Makerspace by visiting our website or contacting the library directly.
This month also marked a special visit from Detective Wilder of the Scarsdale Police Department, and Sushi, a beloved wellness dog who delighted staff and patrons alike. Sushi even received a library card, making it official—our library truly welcomes all members of the community!
Below are a few of the many responses we received from the community.
Let me count the ways: The beautiful new building, the welcoming staff, access to books, e-books and audiobooks, no fines!, wonderful events and art exhibits.
The kind and friendly staff, variety of programming, gorgeous facility, children’s room!
The children's room librarians are so friendly and give wonderful recommendations
The Scarsdale library is almost like a second home for me. The librarians are SO helpful and so kind.
I like how the librarians are friendly and how I can have a place to go to feel comfortable.
Access to newly published books and the elimination of late fines. That was an absolute game changer for me.
For more information about upcoming library events, programs, and Makerspace opportunities for Scarsdale residents, visit scarsdalelibrary.org.
Scarsdale Librarian Helps Select Prestigious Literary Award Winners
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Ever wondered how children’s books earn those prestigious literary medals like the Newbery and Caldecott? Behind every award-winning title stands a dedicated team of literary professionals who carefully evaluate and champion stories that inspire young readers for generations to come.
Among them is Sarah Rodriguez, a respected children's collection development librarian at Scarsdale Public Library, who has dedicated her career to serving the Scarsdale community for 13 years. This year, Sarah played a pivotal role in selecting the winners of the John Newbery Medal, one of the most esteemed honors in children’s literature. This is not Sarah’s first contribution to children’s literature, over the past 5 years, she has also served on the Caldecott and Stonewall committees.
Award selection is an intensive process. As a committee member, Sarah read and meticulously evaluated hundreds of books, collaborating with fifteen fellow librarians to determine the most exceptional literary contributions for young readers. The Newbery Medal, awarded annually, considers books that enhance children’s understanding, abilities, and appreciation for literature from birth up to age 14.
In a letter written to Library Director Beth Bermel, Maeve Visser Knoth, Chair of the 2025 John Newbery Award Selection Committee, said, “Sarah made major contributions to our work. She had so many insightful things to say and, I am sure, brought back new skills to the workplace. I loved getting to know her and working with her - you are lucky to have such a committed, thoughtful, enthusiastic colleague.”
Announced on January 27 during the Youth Media Awards, these prestigious accolades recognize the most distinguished American children’s books published in the previous year. The official award presentation will take place in June at the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference.
Sarah Rodriguez
Of this experience, Sarah had this to say, “Serving on the Newbery selection committee deepened not just my knowledge of children's literature, but my understanding of how different books speak to different readers. With fifteen professionals from across the country on the committee, each of us saw the same book in fifteen different ways, and each of those perspectives enriched our understanding of what makes a book truly distinguished. Every time a family comes to the library seeking their child's next great read, I draw on this experience. It’s a reminder that the perfect book for each child isn't the one we as adults personally love most, but the one that will spark their own unique journey as a reader.”
The ALA, a leading voice for libraries across the country, is committed to advocating for quality library services and ensuring public access to information. The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC)—the world’s largest organization dedicated to children’s library services—plays a key role in assessing literary materials, expanding access to library programs, and supporting the professional development of librarians like Sarah.
As an advocate for literacy and lifelong learning, Sarah’s participation in this prestigious award process highlights the Scarsdale Public Library’s dedication to bringing the best in children’s literature to the community. Families, educators, and young readers alike can explore these award-winning titles at the library and discover stories that shape young minds for the future.
Library Director Beth Bermel expressed her gratitude, saying, “Congratulations, Sarah, and thank you for all your hard work. As someone who actively sought out books with the Newbery label on the cover as a kid, this means a lot to me personally as well.”
For more information on the latest award-winning books or to learn more about Scarsdale Public Library’s children’s programs click here.
Obituary: Jackie Sussman
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Jacqueline “Jackie” Sandra Altman Sussman, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and aunt, passed away on February 3, 2025, at 1:00 AM in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the age of 82. Born on January 13, 1943, in Brooklyn, NY, to Irving Altman and Ruth Kass, Jackie did not meet her father until he returned from his service in Japan during World War II and the occupation force in 1946.
Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s call to service, she joined the Peace Corps in 1964 and was stationed in Liberia. She went on to become a special education speech pathologist in the Bronx public schools, working with nonverbal autistic children through assisted communication.
While earning her master’s degree at Xavier University in New Orleans, Jackie worked with underserved communities and continued that commitment throughout her life. She volunteered as a teacher in Israel (on kibbutzim), Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, and China, always seeking ways to support and educate those in need.
Harold and Jackie Sussman
Jackie was also an avid runner, averaging over five miles a day into her 80s, until a recent injury and subsequent complications led to her passing. She had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and enjoyed painting and drawing in her free time.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Dr. Harold Sussman; her sister, Sarah Altman; her four children, Samara, a teacher, Tamatha, a gynecological surgeon, Clifford, a psychiatrist, and Bradford, a lawyer; and seven cherished grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Weinstein Memorial Chapel, 1652 Central Park Avenue, Yonkers, NY, followed by burial at New Montefiore Cemetery in Long Island. Shiva will be observed at 17 Hearthstone Circle, Scarsdale, NY 10583, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jewish National Fund to plant trees in Jackie’s name or to Magen David Adom in her memory.
Celebrate Library Lovers Month and Win Prizes
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(From the Scarsdale Library) February is Library Lovers’ Month, and the Scarsdale Public Library is celebrating! We invite you to share what you love about the Library for a chance to win bookish prizes in our special raffle.
Tell us what you love and enter to win! We want to hear from you! What makes the Library special in your life? Whether it’s the books, the programs, the welcoming atmosphere, or the friendly staff, let us know! Simply fill out a submission slip and return it to our Reference or Circulation desks by February 28 to be entered into our raffle.
A Space for Everyone
From the youngest readers to lifelong learners, the Library offers something for every stage of life. Whether you visit us in person or explore our digital collection from home, we are dedicated to making the Library a place for everyone.
Experience the Library Wherever You Are
Can’t make it in person? No problem! With our vast collection of digital books, magazines, and streaming services, you can enjoy the Library from the comfort of your home or while traveling. All you need is an internet connection to unlock a world of stories, information, and entertainment.
Join us in celebrating Library Lovers Month and take part in our raffle! Visit us today, share your love for the Library, and enter for a chance to win!
Click here for more information.
A Panel on Anti-Semitism in Publishing at Scarsdale Library
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The publishing industry is grappling with a troubling rise in anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment, which is creating obstacles for Jewish authors and works with Jewish or Israeli themes. To address this pressing issue, Scarsdale Library hosted a panel discussion on January 10, 2025, titled “This Moment in Time: A Panel on Anti-Semitism and Publishing. "
The event, moderated by Scarsdale author Barbara Josselsohn (The Forgotten Italian Restaurant) and Frederic Price, founder of Fig Tree Books LLC, moderated a panel of notable writers. Jacqueline Friedland (He Gets That From Me), Haya Molnar (Under a Red Sky), and Samantha Greene Woodruff (The Lobotomist’s Wife) each shared their insights on the challenges they face as Jewish writers.
Frederic Price highlighted an alarming trend: publishers and agents increasingly avoid representing Jewish authors or works perceived as “too Jewish.” He attributed this shift partly to younger, left-leaning woke employees at publishing houses who dismissed works based on subject matter or the author’s name.
Jacqueline Friedland shared her encounter with a Google spreadsheet titled “Is Your Favorite Author a Zionist?” This widely shared document categorized authors based on their stance on Israel, encouraging users to boycott books by pro-Israel writers. Garnering over one million views, the spreadsheet is a grim reminder of how social media fuels intolerance, particularly in the wake of the Hamas attacks on October 7. Friedland also noted that anti-Zionist readers have intentionally undermined books on social media sites like Goodreads by leaving poor reviews and low ratings, effectively tanking their success.
This environment has led to calls for boycotts of Israeli cultural institutions. Over 1,000 authors, including Sally Rooney and Percival Everett, signed a letter accusing such institutions of complicity in alleged human rights violations. However, there is some pushback. Another coalition of literary professionals signed a letter rejecting these boycotts, arguing that such measures stifle cultural exchange and free expression.
Ironically, panel members shared that they are writing increasingly as proud Jews, refusing to hide or shy away from detractors or topics that can invoke controversy. The panelists offered hope and advice to Jewish writers. “Stay true to your creative voice,” urged Haya Molnar. Frederic Price agreed, emphasizing, “Don’t change a thing.”
The panel also discussed a movement in the literary world regarding whether writers should or should not explore "other voices"—that is, writing about experiences, cultures, or identities that differ from their own. Increasingly, writers are criticized for lack of authenticity and cultural appropriation. In fact, Price shared that some publishing houses employ sensitivity readers to review manuscripts.
Not surprisingly, social media has amplified these criticisms. Some new writers have faced public backlash, boycotts, or even withdrawn books after being accused of cultural appropriation or misrepresentation.
The panel took great offense to these allegations and felt that such unfounded, impractical criticism impeded their storytelling ability. The panel is committed to respectful creativity, and a panel member quoted Maya Angelou’s advice to writers, "I think you need to live in as many different characters’ shoes as possible in your writing. That is to say, be empathic and compassionate, and enter those experiences to the best of your ability. You can never fully know another’s experience, but you can try to understand and portray it honestly."
This is a sad state of affairs with censorship and a lack of freedom of speech emerging in ways many have not witnessed in their lifetimes. Price went on to say we need to move from outrage to action. He encouraged writers to explore alternative publishing avenues, like the Jewish Publication Society, to ensure their stories reach readers. He hopes that some prominent non-Jewish people will have the courage to speak out against this censorship. Readers also play a role and should continue vigilance and speaking up. When asked, some panelists would refuse to read specific authors given their criticism of Israel, like Sally Rooney (Normal People) or Percival Everett (James).
The event concluded with attendees expressing gratitude for the Scarsdale Library’s commitment to fostering dialogue on critical issues. By spotlighting the challenges of Jewish the panel discussion sparked a meaningful conversation about the broader implications of free expression and cultural tolerance. Events like these remind us of the power of discussion to inspire understanding and action.
Commenting on the event, Barbara Josselsohn said, "It was wonderful to see so many people join us on a cold January morning. The panelists all had such valuable insights, and the audience questions and observations were smart and thoughtful. I’m so grateful to the Scarsdale Library for hosting this important discussion.”
