National Library to Exhibit Memorial Books Ahead of October 7 Anniversary
The National Library of Israel announces the exhibition "7.10 | Bound in Memory" featuring memorial books, calling on families to deposit publications to preserve national heritage.
The immense loss experienced by Israeli society since October 7 has found expression in numerous memorial books published by families, friends, communities, and organizations mourning their loved ones. These volumes emerged from profound grief and longing alongside works left behind by the fallen and murdered, published in their memory.
Preserving Memory at the National Library
Ahead of marking three years since October 7, the National Library of Israel will present the exhibition "7.10 | Bound in Memory," showcasing memorial books and booklets created in the wake of the tragedy. Simultaneously, the institution is calling upon the public to help locate and deposit additional memorial publications to be preserved for future generations.
This initiative forms part of the National Library's broader documentation effort surrounding the events of October 7 and the ongoing war. Through the October 7 Archive, the library collects, preserves, and catalogs testimonies, collections, and materials documenting the era to ensure accessibility for posterity.
Digital Access and Public Appeal
The unique exhibition will display books and booklets collected by the National Library thus far, while a dedicated mini-site will launch on the library's website, allowing the wider public to explore the personal stories, personalities, and memories behind the names digitally.
"We call upon families possessing a memorial book or booklet not yet deposited to contribute a physical or digital copy, ensuring these vital pieces of personal and national memory endure for future generations," library officials stated.
The library clarified that this appeal is directed to bereaved families of fallen soldiers across all of Israel's military campaigns as well as families of victims of hostile acts throughout the nation's history.
Community Encounters in Salon Otef
Meanwhile, between October 4 and 8, the public will engage with hundreds of October 7 survivors and security forces personnel through the "Salon Otef" initiative, taking place in homes and communities nationwide.
These gatherings allow participants to hear firsthand accounts from those who experienced the October 7 disaster and its aftermath, fostering a deeper understanding of ongoing resilience. Launched in 2024, the "Salon Otef" project convenes annually around the anniversary of the attacks under the auspices of the 255 Association and the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, supported by numerous partners.
