The Wiener Library |
The Wiener Library was foundet by Alfred Wiener in 1933. It is the world's oldest institution devoted to the study of the Holocaust, its causes and legacies. It was founded as an information bureau that informed Jewish communities and governments worldwide about the persecution of the Jews under the Nazis. After the end of World War II it was transformed into a research institute and public access library. Now the official name of the institution is the "Institute of Contemporary History and Wiener Library, Ltd." The adress is: 4 Devonshire Street, near Regent’s Park. In 2009 the Library will move to another location.
The Wiener Library's logo, a Star of David made out of books. It contains the message “If we don’t save our history, it will perish.” |
My main-task at the Library will be to deal with correspondece (phone and writing correspondence). There is also work to be done typical of a library, such as filing documents, conserving old books, etc. Another interesting part of my work is helping to organize academic events. I have also the opportunity to assist at lectures. Another part of my work is be to attend to the Wiener Library's museum.
The reason why I would like to work at the Wiener Library in London is due to my interest in history, especially the Second World War. I have learned about the danger of nationalism and it is my desire to raise people’s awareness of that hazard. With this work I would like to contribute to prevent the possibility of such a catastrophe occurring again. I am also very interested in (English) Holocaust literature so the Wiener Library is the perfect place for me to undertake my service.
Another reason why I would like to work at the Library is my love for the city. London is a wonderful city with a great history. But London is also Europe’s capital for music. Many famous bands emerged there (the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, etc.). I am also a passionate guitarist and I would like to catch up with some good musicians in London.