Heidi Rabinowitz has a diverse and extensive work experience in the field of children's literature, particularly in Jewish literature. Heidi currently serves as a DEI (Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive) Consultant for Storytime Solidarity, where they consult and writes articles about Jewish children's literature. Additionally, they are a Library Director/Media Specialist at Congregation B'nai Israel, responsible for managing a large synagogue library and conducting various educational programs.
Heidi is actively involved in promoting diversity in literature and is a member of the Diverse Books Advisory Group for Little Free Library, where they recommend Jewish titles for their "Read in Color" initiative. Heidi is also a member of the American Library Association's Equity Diversity Inclusion Speakers Bureau, available for virtual speaking engagements on the topic of Jewish children's literature.
Heidi has co-created and administrates two online communities focused on Jewish literature for children, namely The Sydney Taylor Shmooze and Jewish Kidlit Mavens. Heidi has held leadership positions in the Association of Jewish Libraries, including serving as the President from 2012-2014. Furthermore, they are a co-creator and administrator of The Jewish Book Carnival.
Heidi'sexpertise in the field is also reflected in their roles as a book reviewer for School Library Journal and AJL Reviews since 2001, specializing in Judaica. Heidi has also authored thematic articles recommending children's literature for EBSCO's NoveList databases.
Heidi Rabinowitz (she/her) completed their Bachelor's degree in English, with a minor in Women's Studies, at Oberlin College from 1985 to 1989. Following that, they pursued a Master's Degree in Library & Information Science at the University of Pittsburgh, from 1992 to 1993.
August, 1998 - present