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Using the Archives

Contacting the Archives

Executive Director and Curator: Linda Forgosh
Jewish Historical Society of MetroWest
901 Route 10 East
Whippany, NJ 07981
Phone: (973) 929-2994
Email: lforgosh@jhsmw.org

Archivist: Jill Hershorin
Phone: (973) 929-2995
Fax: (973) 428-8237
Email: jhershorin@jhsmw.org

Archives Hours:

The archives are available to researchers 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Thursdays, and Fridays until 4 PM, excluding legal and major Jewish holidays. Appointments are requested.

Using the Archives : Accessing the Records

The JHSMW Archives contain unique and irreplaceable records of the history of the greater Jewish community of Metrowest. Because of the value and rarity of these materials, special rules for the use of the collections are needed to ensure that these items remain in good condition.

General Archives Rules

  1. Food and/or drink are not permitted near archival records at any time.
  2. Researchers are required to use either pencils or laptops when taking notes. Pens are not permitted to be used near archival records.
  3. Many of the materials held in the archives are very old and have become fragile or brittle with time. Researchers are asked to take special care when handling these materials and may be asked to wear cotton gloves when handling photographs and some documents.
  4. Researchers are not permitted to enter the archival stacks. If additional records are needed, the Archivist will be happy to retrieve the documents for you.

Using the Archives : On the Day(s) of Your Visit

 The JHSMW office and archives are located on the first floor of the Alex Aidekman Jewish Community Campus. You are required to register when you enter the building at which time the receptionist at the front desk will direct you to the JHS.

If you have made an appointment in advance, the materials should be out and waiting for you. If you are making a "drop-in" visit, the materials you request will be brought to you by a member of the Archives staff.

If you need more than one visit to complete your research, please advise a member of the JHSMW staff, who will place your materials on a special shelf within the Archives. If you will be engaging in long-term projects, you have the option of scheduling "standing appointments" to visit on specific days and times on a regular basis.

Using the Archives : Circulation and Photocopying

Archival materials do not circulate under any circumstances and may be only be used at the office of the JHSMW. While most archival materials can be photocopied, some can not, due to age or deterioration. Before photocopying materials please present them to a member of JHSMW staff for evaluation.