PJ Library Questions
Is my child/grandchild eligible for the program?
Eligible families must have a Jewish connection, live within Maine and have a child between the ages of 6 months and 8 years. For those living in the Bangor area or in York County, you may enroll in PJ Library through programs in those areas- go to PJ Library Community Page
If you have children or grandchildren living outside the Southern Maine area and would like to enroll those children, please click here to find a list of participating communities. PJ Library is offered in over 180 communities in North America or can be purchased as a gift for children living in areas where there is no active PJ Library program.
What does PJ stand for?
Pajamas! Pajama time can be special time for families to read, dance along to music and connect!
Why are you giving me all of this stuff?
Because fundamentally, we believe that when parents and children read together, it changes the world. There are some fantastic Jewish children’s books out there — books that are as wonderful as the classics you may have been reading to your children already. We know high quality Jewish books can be expensive and difficult to find. We are sending these materials to you because we want you to have them. We believe sharing these stories and songs will enrich your family life.
What’s the catch?
There is no catch — just FREE books and music!
What will my child(ren) be receiving over the course of the year?
Each child will receive a total of 10 children’s books and one CD. In addition to that, one month’s mailing will be a parenting book for the adults of the family to enjoy. To learn what specific selections your child(ren) will be receiving, visit the Books and Music List.
How is it determined what books my child(ren) will be receiving?
Books are selected by the PJ Library National Office’s Book Selection Committee made up of experts in the fields of Jewish Library Science and Jewish Early Childhood Education. Each child enrolled in the PJ Library is categorized according to his/her date of birth.
Will my younger child get the same books as my older child?
We have selected a unique list of materials for each age group. Our lists do change yearly, however, there are some books we consider to be classics and therefore, they will never be rotated out.
Do I have to sign up at a certain time of year?
You may sign up during any month of the year. Enjoying any selection does not depend on information from a previous book.
I’ve heard that the PJ Library is for children through age 8. Can my eight-year-old be enrolled?
Absolutely! So long as your child is enrolled before his/her ninth birthday, s/he will receive all of the selections for eight-year-olds over the course of one year.
How long will it take for my child to receive the first book?
Most families receive their first book within eight weeks of signing up for the PJ Library. Books are mailed out on the first of each month. Because we use bulk mail, they usually arrive in homes mid-month. If you have not received your first book within eight weeks, please contact our PJ Library Coordinator, Andrea Krasker Gavin so that we may resolve the problem.
I signed up my newborn but have not received anything yet. Is that normal?
Babies will start receiving books at the age of six months. If your baby passes that milestone and you still have not received any books, please let us know so we can look into it.
My child has special needs and reads at a younger level than his/her chronological age. How can I enroll my child to receive books at the appropriate developmental level?
Please contact our PJ Library Coordinator, Andrea Krasker Gavin to enroll your child at the most appropriate developmental level.
My family is enrolled in a PJ Library program in another community, but we live here now, how can I switch to your program?
Welcome to Southern Maine! We are happy to have you as a part of our community, and look forward to seeing you at some of our events. Please contact our PJ Library Coordinator, Andrea Krasker Gavin to make the change.
Do I need to enroll in your program if I am already receiving the books from another program?
The benefit of enrolling in a local program is in receiving the monthly e-newsletter with information about books, parenting and events that give you the opportunity to connect with other PJ Library families in the area.
Where can I find a list of great Jewish children’s books?
We’re glad you asked! Simply click on the Books and Music List. Our full books and music lists for all ages are right there.
I have misplaced my reading guide. Can I get another?
Absolutely! Simply go to the Books and Music ListBooks and Music list, (link to PJ list) and click on your child’s age group. From there, click on the PDF icon next to the title of the book you are reading. This will lead you to the reading guide for that book. Feel free to print them out.
My children now check the mailbox in hopes of receiving their monthly PJ Library book or music. When the package arrives, we read the book over and over and play the music endlessly. This month's book came with an applesauce recipe for Passover, and we can't wait to make it!
Jewish Community Alliance PJ Parent