Jonathan and Marcia Katz are creating the Rebecca Katz Youth Library at Temple Emanu-El in honor of their daughter, who died two years ago at age 22. A dedication and grand opening will take place in late April.
“The inspiration for this library comes from Rebecca’s passion for literature, her deep love of family and her strong Jewish identity. Like Rebecca, this library is bright and cheerful, warm and inviting. There will be ongoing activities like story time, writing workshops, yoga classes, movie nights, author readings, holiday craft-making, dance and much more,” says Jonathan.
One area of the library will be dedicated to an extensive selection of books that focus on the Holocaust and tolerance.
After collecting donations from friends and family, the Katzes are seeking support from the wider Jewish community. Donations can be mailed to Temple Emanu-El or made at templeemanueltucson.org (select donations, Rebecca Katz Youth Library).
Rabbi Samuel M. Cohon has championed the project, says Jonathan. “Rebecca had a very special relationship with Rabbi Cohon. She would often challenge him with her wit and humor but it was their shared love of literature that bonded them.”
Rebecca’s sister, Lauren, has planned a benefit dance concert to be held at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre at the University of Arizona, 1713 E. University Blvd., on Saturday, March 24 at 7:30 p.m., with a dessert reception beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students. Call 621-1162 or visit http://arizona.tix.com/ Event.asp?Event=448525.
