Casa do Povo reopens library after 40 years with 8,000 books and collective archives

On May 11, the library at Casa do Povo in São Paulo's Bom Retiro reopened its doors after a nearly 40-year hiatus. This library houses around 8,000 volumes, with half of them in Yiddish, alongside extensive archival materials. Established in 1946 by progressive Jewish individuals, Casa do Povo has experienced a significant revival in recent years. The collection features resources from previous institutions and literature from Jewish immigrants who escaped WWII. Curator Marilia Loureiro emphasized the archive's significance, while volunteers Marina Sendacz and Leda Tronca worked to maintain it during a 30-year period of decline. The reopening was made possible through the 2016 "Arquivo Vivo" initiative, which raised 160,000 reais, with flexible furniture designed by Grupo Inteiro. An installation by artist Mariana Lanari is scheduled for July.