The Bialystoker Synagogue Online Library

An online library is a categorized collection of electronic resources. Unlike an online library catalog, an online library does not simply point you to a resource; it provides the resource itself.

Why can't I just use a search engine to find what I want?

The most difficult thing about using the Internet is finding the information you want. Search engines typically return huge numbers of hits, many of which are useless. Even directories such as Yahoo, or their Jewish equivalents such as Maven and Hareshima, mix personal pages with institutional ones. And it's very difficult to determine the credentials and authority of the authors. An online library consists of material selected, vetted and arranged by librarians who apply the same criteria to web pages they do to printed books.

So, where do I start?

If you just want to browse, try the section on Jewish Search Engines. It offers access to wonderful starting points, some created by individuals and some from institutional sources.