Howard Freedman
Library Director
howard@jewishcommunitylibrary.org | 415.567.3327 x705
Howard Freedman has worked professionally with the Jewish Community Library since 1992, and became its director in 2009. A credentialed educator, he has taught in a wide variety of settings. Since 2012 he has written the Off the Shelf column on books in J. The Jewish News of Northern California and received a first place award in the 2023 Simon Rockower Awards for Excellence in Jewish Journalism. Howard is a lover of music, and plays mandolin, guitar, banjo, drums, and harmonica.
Sam Kreeger
Reader Services Librarian
sam@jewishcommunitylibrary.org | 415.567.3327 x703
Sam Kreeger joins the Jewish Community Library in 2026 from a background in education and Judaic studies. They attained an MA in American Studies from the University of Iowa, with extensive graduate coursework at the university’s Center for the Book. In addition to Book Arts, their research interests have focused on public memory, queer theory, and Biblical translation. Sam loves learning new bookbinding techniques, reading and watching science fiction, and cheering for the San Jose Sharks.
Leah Strauss
Librarian, Library Pushcart at the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto
leah@jewishcommunitylibrary.org | 415.567.3327 x706
Leah Strauss holds master’s degrees in library and information science, Jewish early childhood education, and journalism. For two decades she was a mentor teacher in Bay Area Jewish programs, and has been a librarian with the Jewish Community Library since 2016. Previously she was a public relations and marketing writer for Silicon Valley tech companies. She has held volunteer leadership positions advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion and access. Leah is a fiber artist and crafter, and loves traveling to experience Jewish cultures globally.
Volunteer Staff
Judy Baston
Yakov Kagan
Rose Katz
Laureen Kim
Paula Rampe
Arta Zygielbaum