HISTORY AND VISION

The first Columbia  Presbyterian Church Library was started in 1990, with donated books, and the encouragement of LaVern Brassard, and staffed by volunteers.  Until his death in 1998, Rev. Brassard  remained a much beloved supporter and encourager of the library. 

 

Through the years the library has undergone many changes.  The building renovations of 2013-14 have led to a new vision for the CPC Library.  The room is not just a library, but also a prayer room with a gallery wall dedicated to rotating displays of art which provoke reflection and conversation with God.  The new vision is that the life of both mind and heart will mutually inform and transform one another.  The library furthers this purpose by providing resources that encourage theological formation, Bible study, inspiration and spiritual growth.

 

 

USING THE LIBRARY

The materials are arranged by interest  areas. Materials are checked out on the honor system for a 3-week period.  Certain materials designated as “REFERENCE” may not be checked out.  They are to be used in the library.

In addition to a lending library, a section of the shelves is dedicated to “books to buy” where books which are being recommended, or are being used for current classes, can be purchased through an envelope honor system.  The library catalog is available at www.librarything.com/catalog/colpresvan.

 

DONATIONS

The library provides carefully chosen resources in diverse interest areas.  Because the purpose of the library is clearly defined and because shelf space in the library is limited, great care is given to adding resources. Donations not chosen for addition to the library collection will be returned to the donor or disposed of in an appropriate manner.

 

LIBRARY COLLECTION CRITERIA

  1. Does the material meet a particular need in the library?
  2. Is the material appropriate for the interest group for which it is intended?
  3. Does the author have a good reputation in this field?
  4. Are the materials’ physical makeup, binding, paper quality, print size, margins, etc. satisfactory?
  5. Is the vocabulary and writing style effective for the intended user?
  6. Are the contents timely and up-to-date?
  7. Will this material be used?
  8. Does the material have lasting value?

(adapted from:www.pnacl.org/SelectionPolicy.pdf)