Church Library Collection Development - Articles - Church Librarians Network2024-03-29T09:52:12Zhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/feed/category/Church+Library+Collection+DevelopmentAn Unexpected Connection: How Christian Fiction Encourages My Faithhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/an-unexpected-connection-how-christian-fiction-encourages-my-fait2021-04-12T21:58:07.000Z2021-04-12T21:58:07.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p>Last week during the Alabama webinars, I mentioned a recent experience with my church's Women's Ministry. They asked me to write a blog post for their ministry blog. The opportunity challenged me to write in a different style than I usually use. For the first time in a long time, I got to share something in first person instead of third person. I chose a focus on something I've been mulling over for a few months. Is Christian fiction understood today to be clean stories for entertainment or do people grasp the opportunity to learn and experience God in stories set in our context? Jesus wisely used the parables to help people understand his teachings through stories set in their context of their day. For many of us, our learning styles lean in to the use of illustrations or stories in our context of understanding.</p>
<p>Some of you asked that I share this blog post with you. So here it is. I am also posting it here hoping we might have a conversation about how to put Christian fiction in our churches' libraries in the context of understanding how God works in our lives today.</p>
<p><a href="https://women925.wixsite.com/fhbcwomen/post/morlee-maynard-an-unexpected-connection-how-christian-fiction-encourages-my-faith" target="_blank">https://women925.wixsite.com/fhbcwomen/post/morlee-maynard-an-unexpected-connection-how-christian-fiction-encourages-my-faith</a></p>
<p>Sadly, many lead pastors do not understand the role that Christian fiction is playing in our churches. Recently, one of our members shared how her pastor told the librarian to remove all Christian fiction. I've actually heard variations of this experience among many church libraries through the years. </p>
<p>I hope you will share your thoughts and experiences with Christian fiction with us in the comments.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p></div>Church Library Ministry Publishers Listhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/church-library-ministry-publishers-list2020-08-31T18:34:51.000Z2020-08-31T18:34:51.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Contributed by Eva Nell Hunter, library team leader for Central Baptist Church, Decatur, Alabama and Sue Berthelot, library team leader for Ascension Baptist Church, Gonzales, Louisiana. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">The publishers are listed for your convenience with the intent of providing information you need when selecting titles for your collection. For your awareness, not all of the listed publishers are Christian. All titles should be evaluated in light of your church’s selection policy to determine if they are appropriate for your church’s collection.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Download:<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7755808459,original{{/staticFileLink}}"> Publishers List</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">With questions, email churchlibrariansnetwork@gmail.com</span></p></div>Strategic Technology Planning for the Church Libraryhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/strategic-technology-planning-for-the-church-library2020-07-20T20:17:11.000Z2020-07-20T20:17:11.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Written by Ken Satterfield</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>Plans are nothing; planning is everything.</em> - Dwight D. Eisenhower</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>You've got to be very careful if you don't know where you are going, because you might not get there.</em> - Yogi Berra</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Successful churches, like successful businesses, have discovered that there is value in strategic planning – preparation that looks far beyond the next week or next year to look at goals for the next 10 or 20 years. That’s still true, even when there are surprises like a global pandemic that upsets the apple cart.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">My church decided to put together a time capsule in 1999 to be opened in 2100. We asked, “What format should we use that could still be read in a hundred years?” The answer proved surprisingly complicated. You may feel that way if you’ve thought about how to plan beyond the upcoming budget year.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">It may seem unimaginable – just look <em>backward</em> to the year 2000. DVDs and mp3 players had just been introduced to the general public (1997). Amazon was an online bookstore (1995) and Google was just another search engine (1998). Books, newspapers, and magazines were almost universally printed.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">What kind of media will we be using in the <em>next</em> 20 years? Perhaps the best way to prepare is consider trends that affect the media we use:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;">* <strong>Print continues to make way for digital. </strong>Print is not dead, but it is changing. Church libraries have moved from vinyl to cassette, CDs, and now digital files and downloads. VCR became DVDs, whose market share has dropped by more than two-thirds in the past decade, replaced by streaming services and the corner Redbox vending machine.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Books require TLC – space, proper temperature and humidity, avoiding dust and direct sunlight – while the contents of the entire Library of Congress can be digitally stored in a shoebox. While more fragile – affected by a cracks, hard drive crashes, and power surges – digital information is much easier to duplicate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">A storage cloud will become the source for information, much as we rely on electricity for power now.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">But once again, print is not dead! Last year, Pew Research Center found about a quarter of Americans read an eBook, yet around two-thirds of Americans read a book in print.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For licensing reasons, a church library may not have the ability to offer digital titles. Churches need to explore the possibility of working together in consortia for digital resources, while making the best investments in print materials. Subscription services such as RightNow Media (rightnowmedia.org) can provide Bible and topical study materials, self-enrichment, and children’s titles.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">* <strong>Information becomes more and more available.</strong> A few years ago, a church library might be considered a smaller but more specialized version of the local public library. Today, a smartphone has access to more titles than the local library!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>What does this mean to you?</em> Today’s library is limited in size. That doesn’t have to be a limitation to tomorrow’s library. Technologies that favor availability more than the collection are needed. Computers, tablets, phones – or whatever takes their place – need to be kept up to date. Embrace information technology; apps such as Libby by OverDrive make titles more accessible, including audiobooks and magazines.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">And, even if an individual church may not be able to carry every print and movie title themselves, we can help members and other patrons discover where to find and access the best of these titles to grow Christians and strengthen families.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">* <strong>Many do not utilize the internet, BUT…</strong> A lot of people are like my mom. She, like 10 percent of Americans, doesn’t access the internet and has no interest in email or texting. Then there are those who cannot afford or access internet access. Others can surf the web, send emails and keep in touch with Facebook, but have not fine-tuned their skills to know how to search effectively, watch a streaming service online or attach a file to an email.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>What does this mean to you?</em> It is critical that library teams also become guides for technology, knowing how equipment works and how to do common tasks. That’s a moving target. As a new generation comes along and new technologies come into play, today’s questions will be unnecessary, replaced by new questions. Developing and utilizing other helps is needed. And those who choose to not be online should not be treated like second-class citizens and left behind.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For those who are online, opportunities for utilizing social media abound. Libraries can take advantage of a church’s website, Facebook, Twitter, and other accounts to share information and promotion. Communities of book lovers such as Goodreads (goodreads.com) are popular because people gather around common interests and recommendations from those they can trust. The church can utilize such avenues as well. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>* Products are becoming less valued than experience. </strong>Thomas Frey of the DaVinci Institute predicted that as Baby Boomers retire and lifestyles become more mobile, having the right things will become less important and experiences will be become prized.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>What does this mean to you?</em> If the library becomes more digitized and has access to this incredible amount of content, will it still need a location? Yes!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">The Institute of Museum and Library Services determined that millions of people use their libraries to find a job each year. These individuals may not check out a title but appreciate access to free information.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>The library provides a useful service.</em> You may not be providing employment helps, but what <em>can</em> you provide? In a day of “fake news,” dependable sources for truth are invaluable. That could point the need for computer devices and software, paired with your resourcefulness and your care for people. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Public libraries are constantly seeking ways to be crucial parts of their communities, and that is a key to the library’s future. So, the same is true for the library of a church in seeking to be a necessity (rather than a luxury) both within and outside the walls of the church. It is not only the mission of the church, but also desire of a vibrant library ministry!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">As climate change results in an increase in the frequency and the power of storms, we are reminded all too often that a library powered by machines and electricity alone can be disabled. However, a church library that is creative, resourceful, and provides superior service is one that will be vital to the future of believers – regardless of the technology tools we use. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Search your go-to websites for library technology information. Let's have a conversation on the CLN about the future of church libraries. Click <strong>here</strong> to observe and participate in this discussion.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><em>___________________</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><em>Ken Satterfield</em></strong> is a former state library consultant and marketing coordinator for Word&Way. This article has been revised from an earlier version to update trends and sources. Posted July 20, 2020.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Download here: <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7052544688,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Strategic Technology Planning for the Church Library</a></strong></span></p></div>Wrapping Up a Church Library Book Drivehttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/wrapping-up-a-church-library-book-drive2020-07-20T19:56:20.000Z2020-07-20T19:56:20.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Written by Sue Berthelot </strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Plans were made and carried out for a successful book drive. Now is the time to wrap up the details and enjoy all the new items in the library. Consider the day after the drive, evaluation, and coming weeks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Day After the Drive:</strong> Inventory the items and account for all items, sold and unsold. Set aside any items not purchased during the drive that the library team would like to purchase. Checks, cash, credit card, or debit card sales need to be turned in to the financial office. A check needs to be made out to the bookstore, if on consignment, and accompany any items that will be returned to the store. All unsold items need to be returned to the bookstore within one or two days of the drive to avoid any misplaced items. Also, any items purchased online need to be immediately shipped back to the vendor.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Evaluation:</strong> Everyone involved with the drive need to attend a meeting to discuss the positive and negative points of the drive. Discuss ways to improve and begin planning for the next drive. Did anyone spot a potential library team member during the drive?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Coming Weeks:</strong> Process the items as quickly as possible. Individuals who purchased some of the items will be eager to check them out, especially children. </span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">As items are processed, remember the book plates. Take care with spelling of names.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Acknowledgement cards are also a part of the process. Be sure to send cards to those who had a book placed in their honor.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Memorial donations also need to be acknowledged. You may need to send multiple cards to family members who live in different towns.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">For items that were not given in memory or honor of an individual, a general acknowledgement in the church newsletter or Sunday bulletin is acceptable.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Check out further information on doing a church library book drives: “<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051641486,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Planning a Church Library Book Drive</a>” and “<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051876462,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Implementing a Church Library Book Drive</a>”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> ___________________</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Sue Berthelot</strong> is a Church Librarians Network Team Member and leader of the Ascension Baptist Church, Gonzales, LA church library team.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Download here: <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051996885,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Wrapping Up a Church Library Book Drive</a></span></p></div>Implementing a Church Library Book Drivehttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/implementing-a-church-library-book-drive2020-07-20T19:40:45.000Z2020-07-20T19:40:45.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><strong>Written by Sue Berthelot </strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">With your plans in hand for your book drive, here are some implementation ideas. These ideas include selection, bookstore, online, pricing, helpers, room set up, before the drive, day of the drive, and additional tips.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Selection</strong>: Print a subject list of your collection and use it to make a list of areas that need books, audiobooks, and DVDs. Browse websites and catalogs to search for items as you prepare a shopping list. In addition, use this shopping list to prepare a mediagraphy for those who cannot attend the drive, but wish to purchase items for the library. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Bookstore:</strong> The team leader should visit the bookstore two to three months before the scheduled drive. Discuss the process with the manager and have a clear understanding about removing items from the store. Will it be on consignment or charged to the church account? What is the date the store will need your list of items to facilitate pulling and packing items or ordering out of stock items? Ask about the store policies regarding libraries.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Online:</strong> If you do not have a bookstore in your area, consider ordering from various online book distributors. Some options might be Christian Book Distributors, Ingram, Amazon, and LifeWay. Each of these offer library accounts. Ask the financial office to assist you in setting up accounts for the library. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> <strong>Pricing:</strong> As you label each item that will be displayed during the drive, round up the cost of an item to avoid the need for loose change. Selling an item at full retail price will help offset the cost of processing supplies. If you are required to collect sales tax, the person handling sales during the drive must have a clear understanding of the tax rate. All checks need to be made out to the church. If you are going to accept credit cards or debit cards work out the details with the church financial office.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong> Helpers:</strong> Assigning team members to tables is important. They need to be familiar with the items on their tables so that they can answer questions concerning the items. Other helpers will be needed to collect the money, remove purchased items from the tables, and assist with filling out Gift Information Sheets (See page 44 of the <em><a href="https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/church-library-ministry-information-service-P005506819">Church Library Ministry Information Service</a></em>) .</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Room Set Up</strong>: Arrange tables so people can easily move around and view the items. Place the items on display tables according to age group and type of selected items. Use signs to identify the items on each table. A dowel stick with information on an attached sign, anchored in a two-liter green bottle filled with sand, can be placed in the center of each table. If the ceiling is drop style, a sign attached to clear monofilament line could be tied to a clear plant hook from the ceiling over each table. A table, away from the items area, will be needed to collect the money. Allow enough room for customers to write checks. Another table with chairs would provide an area for people to fill out Gift Information Sheets. Decorations can add a festive atmosphere to the drive but are not always necessary. Refreshments, optional, should be away from the display area to avoid accidental damage to the items.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> <strong>Before the Drive:</strong> About three days before the drive, visit the bookstore to pick up the items. If you are planning a large book drive, secure help to move the items to the designated area. Remember the church is responsible for all items not returned to the store in original condition. Inventory the items as they are placed on the display tables and have all supplies in place. If you are ordering items, be sure to discuss delivery with the online company to ensure all items arrive on time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Day of the Drive:</strong> The team must be in place thirty minutes before the drive begins. Eagerly anticipate a successful day. Be enthusiastic as someone approaches a table to look at an item, but don’t hover. Be patient. Give them time to make selections or ask questions. Direct them to the check-out area where their choices will be place in sold containers. At the end of the drive, enjoy looking at the empty tables and knowing the library has a large selection of new items to meet the needs of the users.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Additional Tips:</strong> Some church members may wish to have their donation recorded on their giving records or the item given as a memorial. Ask the church financial office if church policies allow this kind of giving. If so, provide offering envelopes clipped to Gift Information sheets, as an easy way for them to fill out the information to be given to the financial office. Church membership rolls and a phone book will provide a quick reference for addresses and correct spelling of names.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Suggested Supplies:</strong></span></p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="312">
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Gift Information Sheets</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Pens and Pencils </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Money Box </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Paper Clips </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Sand Bottles & Dowels</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Containers for Items </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Tables & Chairs for Check-out Area </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Decorations – optional </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Processing Supplies </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Acknowledgement Cards </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> </span></p>
</td>
<td width="312">
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Offering Envelopes</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Church Membership Roll & Phone Book</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Change</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Calculator</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Signs for Tables – Bold & Easy to Read</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Plant Hooks & Monofilament Line</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Table Coverings – optional </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Refreshments – optional </span></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Related articles to help you have a fun and successful church library book drive include “<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051641486,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Planning a Church Library Book Drive</a>” and “<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051996885,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Wrapping Up a Church Library Book Drive</a>”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> _________________</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Sue Berthelot</strong> is a Church Librarians Network Team Member and leader of the Ascension Baptist Church, Gonzales, LA church library team.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Download here: <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051876462,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Implementing a Church Library Book Drive</a></span></p>
<p> </p></div>Planning a Church Library Book Drivehttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/planning-a-church-library-book-drive2020-07-20T19:19:45.000Z2020-07-20T19:19:45.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><strong>Written by Sue Berthelot </strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">With tight or small budgets, it can be difficult for a church library to provide key items to meet the needs of their users. Library team leaders are challenged to be creative and frugal with their dollars. One type of fundraiser to increase your inventory is a book drive. Church libraries have been using book drives for years, but today we need to reconsider some aspects of this approach to fundraising as steppingstones to developing what would work in each of our churches. Let’s consider the what, who, calendar, location, promotion, and bookstores. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>What:</strong> A church library book drive is a great way to make people aware of the library ministry as well as build the collection. Literally, a book drive is a set time and place where desired books, audiobooks, and DVDs are available on tables with prices attached to the items. If your collection includes eBooks, place a donation box on a table. People visit the tables to select items they would like to purchase for the library collection. A book drive can be a fun and beneficial way to add items to a library collection.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Who:</strong> The library team is responsible for planning and hosting the drive. If your team is small, you may need to ask for additional help. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Calendar:</strong> A successful book drive will require detailed planning. The team leader needs to consult with the library ministry church staff liaison and explain the basics of the book drive. Once permission is secured choose a date and submit it to the church planning team or follow your church procedures. Select a date that will not compete with requests for other special gifts to the church. Some libraries opt to have their book drives on two consecutive Sundays.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Location:</strong> The space should provide enough room for everyone to move around display tables and view the items. The area also needs to be in an easily accessible location for the selected time. An area other than the library is the best location in order to avoid mixing up items. The fellowship area may be a good choice.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Promotion:</strong> A combination of promotional methods will reach all groups within the church.</span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Print promotion: flyers, Sunday bulletins, and posters. Place posters in areas that will reach the largest number of your intended audience. Flyers are great for bathrooms and out of the way locations.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Visual promotion: bulletin boards, church website, e-newsletters, or big screen announcements.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Verbal promotion: announcements in classrooms and other venues. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Activities promotion: skits or story time.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Bookstore:</strong> Select a local bookstore or online site to work with you on this book drive. Investigate their library discount policy as well as their consignment policy. Some stores will have a consignment arrangement while others will have you purchase the items on your church account. Some companies may require a separate library account in order to give a discount. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Call your team together and begin your plan of action soon. If this book drive is your first, consider having items for only one or two age groups. Do not over do the number of items. Remember, you must return unsold items to the bookstore or ship them back to the online seller. Have a great book drive!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Check out further information on church library book drives: “<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051876462,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Implementing a Church Library Book Drive</a>” and “<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051996885,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Wrapping Up a Church Library Book Drive</a>”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> ____________________</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Sue Berthelot</strong> is a Church Librarians Network Team Member and leader of the Ascension Baptist Church, Gonzales, LA church library team.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Download here: <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}7051641486,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Planning a Church Library Book Drive</a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> </span></p></div>E-Books: The Costhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/e-books-the-cost2020-07-10T14:46:50.000Z2020-07-10T14:46:50.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p>Written by Glenn McEowen</p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">This article discusses the cost of the <strong>e-books</strong><a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> service. We will look at vendors' annual fees, the cost of titles and the time the library staff uses to manage e-books.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Vendor Annual Fees:</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">When we select a vendor to for our e-books service, we contract with them to manage the highly technical process that permits e-book files (titles) to be downloaded and read. This includes encryption, assigning return dates and downloading to many different devices which, by the way, use vendor-provided apps. The vendor also manages holds, provides a web catalog of just our titles, handles training, coordinates title ordering procedures and negotiates contracts with hundreds of publishers. These are functions that simply cannot be done by a church library.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For these services we would expect to pay a fee. We will not be able to quote fees in this article because they are subject to change and negotiation. (Please contact the vendor for up-to-date numbers.)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><a href="https://overdrive.com">OverDrive</a><sup>®</sup> has an annual service fee and a title budget combined into one payment. Half of the fee covers the services while the other half is used to purchase titles. Their annual fees are based on your church size (not library usage) and have lately been quite competitive especially for smaller (under 1,000) churches. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><a href="https://www.bibliotheca.com/cloudlibrary/">bibliotheca</a><sup>®</sup> [formerly 3M Cloud], on the other hand, charges a lower annual fee, but charges separately for each title. The lower annual fee is certainly attractive for getting started but requires a separate budget for growing the collection.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">One other option is a<em> consortium<a href="#_ftn2"><strong>[2]</strong></a></em>. These are difficult to organize, but they do save on expense. OverDrive prefers stand-alone libraries while bibliotheca has, at least, been open to idea.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Cost of E-book Titles:</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Your e-book collection, like a traditional library, will grow a title at a time. The titles you can purchase are limited to the publishers and titles that your vendor has contracts with. (The publisher list will be an important criterium when selecting a vendor.)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">The costs for e-book titles are about the same as paperback versions of the book. Some vendors charge less for limited usage<a href="#_ftn3">[3]</a> titles. A few large publishers charge outrageous fees for their titles. (We skip those ordinarily.) Heavily illustrated children's e-books will generally cost somewhat more than adult titles. The cost of an Audiobook is about the same as that of a CD set, generally much more than the e-book.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Cost in Time:</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Maintaining an e-book collection will require additional time from the library staff. It can involve several hours each week.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Prior to going "live" with your e-book collection, there will be staff training, policies to be set and ordering of the first titles to create the initial collection. You will, of course want to promote the new service. The vendor will be work closely with your staff through this startup phase. And if any of your staff have never read an e-book, now is the time to try!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">On your "go-live" date and the few weeks following you will want to have helpful staff to assist your members in loading the apps onto their devices and setting logins. Take them through the process of downloading their first e-book.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">After startup there will be several tasks that require regular attention:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Ordering new titles will regularly involve staff time. As with buying new print books, you will need just as much research for e-book purchases. Making an order is a several-step process.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Your vendor can provide MARC records of your e-book purchases in case you wish to merge the e-book titles into your primary collection. It will require editing each record to fit your library's cataloging style. Thankfully, you will not have to cover, to bar code, to shelve or inventory any of your e-book collection. We recommend you add the e-books to your primary collection as it permits them to be searched and listed along with your print titles.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Statistics about the e-book circulation are maintained by the vendor. This is valuable information and should be reviewed periodically. Since it is separate from your library software, it may be worthwhile to combine the stats in a spreadsheet.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">While it is optional, you can curate your own groupings to appear in the vendor-provided catalog. Groupings might include Christmas e-books, Amish fiction titles or any kind of grouping you can imagine. The vendor will have default groupings, but you will probably want to add to theirs. The curation process can be tedious depending on how expansive your groupings are.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Of course, you will want to promote your e-books. ("Did you know that 20% of our library collection is invisible?")</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Adding e-books to your library ministry is a wonderful opportunity but go into it realizing there is ongoing costs in time and expense.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">_________________</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Glenn McEowen</strong> serves as a library volunteer at <a href="https://wedgwoodbc.org/library">Wedgwood Baptist</a> in Fort Worth, TX. He is the VP of Sales and Development with <a href="https://libraryconcepts.com/">Library Concepts</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">This article is a part of a series on e-books on the <a href="https://churchlibrarians.ning.com/">Church Librarians Network</a>.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> The term <em>e-books</em> is used to describe both electronic books (including text and illustrations) and audio books. These are typically downloaded (or streamed) to devices such as e-readers, smartphones, tablets and computers.</p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> The term<em> consortium </em>describes an agreement between several libraries that work together to pay the fees and to expand the collection. Each of the libraries and their members share the one collection.</p>
<p><a href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a> Normally, titles are checked out by one user at a time with no limits as to the how many times they can be checked out. Some publishers, however,<strong> limit</strong> the number of check outs (commonly, 26) or a limited time (2 years) after which the title must repurchased or dropped from the collection.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">To download, click here: <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6759439881,original{{/staticFileLink}}">E-BOOKS: The Cost</a></span></p>
<p> </p></div>E-books: The Ministryhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/e-books-the-ministry2020-07-08T14:48:48.000Z2020-07-08T14:48:48.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Written by Glenn McEowen</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">This article discusses how e-books provide a unique ministry through the church library. After several years of providing this service, our library and others have discovered it as a ministry beyond what ever imagined.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For the complete article, click here: <strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6702713299,original{{/staticFileLink}}">E-books: The Ministry</a></strong></span></p></div>E-books: the Processhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/e-books-the-process2020-07-08T14:40:09.000Z2020-07-08T14:40:09.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Written by Glenn McEowen</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">This article discusses how the <strong>e-books</strong><a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> service works. We will consider the need for an e-book vendor and what it can do for us.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">E-book technology assumes your church member has an electronic device that can connect to the Internet. The device contains software (an app) that can convert the downloaded e-book file into readable form, ie. the appearance of a printed page and handles touch gestures such as turning the page. The devices include dedicated e-readers, tablets, smartphones and computers. Almost everyone has access to some device that can run an e-reader app.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Before we discuss the vendor, let's look at several "vendor-less" ways to serve our e-book users:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Providing web sites that provide free, current e-books with limited-time, first-of-a-series, and "sample" titles.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Posting public domain titles for readers to download.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Providing e-readers or tablets that members can check out. They are supplied with pre-purchased titles.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Most libraries, however, would prefer to create their own collections of current, copyrighted e-book titles. These titles cannot be legally read unless the publisher, author, and others receive their just income. To assure the payments are made, the e-book files (titles) are <em>encrypted</em>. As encrypted files they are useless until an <em>authorization key</em> opens the file. Once <em>authorized</em>, the title can be read on the user's device. The authorization process is very technical and highly protected, but your members and library staff will never have to directly deal with authorization. The <em>encryption/decryption</em> process absolutely requires the services of an <u>e-book vendor</u>. (We know church libraries are using vendors <a href="https://overdrive.com">OverDrive</a><sup>®</sup> and <a href="https://www.bibliotheca.com/cloudlibrary/">bibliotheca</a><sup>®</sup> [formerly <em>3M Cloud</em>]. There may be others that we don't know.)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">The vendor has arrangements with many publishers (probably hundreds) and access to their titles (tens of thousands.) The library's e-book collection is built by purchasing<a href="#_ftn2">[2]</a> these titles from the vendor.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Once an e-book vendor is selected, the library will sign a contract and determine a "go live" date. The vendor will create and maintain a web site containing the library's unique collection (purchased titles) with images, bibliographic details and summaries. This <em>catalog</em> will have groupings by age, topic, fiction, non-fiction, etc., and your own curated sets. Each title will have its own page with "borrow" and "hold" links.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">When the church member is ready to "checkout" an e-book, he or she finds the desired title's page in the vendor's catalog and clicks on the "borrow" link. Next, the member steps through the login and confirmation pages. In seconds, the title appears in the device's reading app ready to read. Behind the scenes, the e-book file has been <em>1) unencrypted</em>, <em>2) authenticated</em> for that member in that church's collection, and <em>3) downloaded</em> for use <u>only</u> on that member's device and <u>only</u> for a defined checkout period (usually 2 or 3 weeks.)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">At the end of the checkout period, the e-book file returns to its <em>encrypted</em> state and is no longer readable … in effect, the title is "turned in." (Think about it: no overdue e-books and, once returned, no need to be shelved!)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">The <em>reading apps</em> (such Libby<sup>®</sup>, OverDrive<sup>®</sup>, cloudLibrary<sup>®</sup>) are provided for free by the vendor to be added to the church member's computer, tablet or smartphone. Each of these apps can download <em>encrypted</em> e-book files, coordinate the device-user authentications and the checkout duration.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">The member, after installing the reader app and downloading an e-book title can read it much like a print book, flipping pages, making notes and highlighting phrases. Settings can be adjusted such as font type and size, background color, brightness and daytime/nighttime preferences. The app remembers where the user left off reading and picks up at that point when the user is ready to read again. Most apps include dictionary lookup by selecting a word (incredibly handy!) Some titles can even read aloud if the app and device support that option.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">As a church library is starting its e-book service, the vendor will provide online training for the library staff. The vendor also has support pages and videos for your church members on learning how to use their reader apps.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">While the vendor will maintain the library's stand-alone e-book web catalog, they will also provide <em>cataloging</em> files for e-book titles. These files (MARC format) can be directly imported into your library software. Adding these records now makes the e-book titles accessible in the library's primary catalog as well as the stand-alone e-book catalog. Cataloged e-book titles can be included in reports or lists the staff creates appearing as just other type of media.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For all the great things e-books can bring to the church library, they are not something that entices readers as they browse the shelves. E-books will need to be promoted in different ways. ("Have you found our INVISIBLE library?") </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"> </span><span style="font-size:12pt;">_______________</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Glenn McEowen serves as a library volunteer at <a href="https://wedgwoodbc.org/library">Wedgwood Baptist</a> in Fort Worth, TX. He is the VP of Sales and Development with <a href="https://libraryconcepts.com/">Library Concepts</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">This article is a part of a series on e-books on the <a href="https://churchlibrarians.ning.com/">Church Librarians Network</a>.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> The term <em>e-books</em> is used to describe both electronic books (including text and illustrations) and audio books. These are typically downloaded (or streamed) to devices such as e-readers, smartphones, tablets and computers.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><a href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> The term <em>purchase</em> is used to denote several payment options. More accurately, e-book titles are "leased" for as long as the e-book service is maintained. Titles are checked out by one user at a time with no limits as to the how many times they can be checked out. Some publishers, however, limit the check outs to a set number (commonly, 26) or limited time (2 years) after which the title must repurchased or dropped from the collection.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For the complete article, click here: <strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6759191657,original{{/staticFileLink}}">E-BOOKS: The Process</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong> </strong></span></p></div>Questions about Digital Media (eBooks)https://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/questions-about-digital-media-ebooks2020-07-03T15:53:30.000Z2020-07-03T15:53:30.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Written by Glenn McEowen</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">A pastor recently contacted me regarding his church's interest in providing eBookservice to his congregation. He shared a list of questions provided by his church LibraryDirector, Pat Bredbenner. They serve at First Baptist, O'Fallon, MO.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For all the rest of this article, click here: <strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6555790884,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Questions about Digital Media eBooks</a></strong></span></p></div>Conducting an Inventory in a Non-Computerized Church Libraryhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/conducting-an-inventory-in-a-non-computerized-church-library2020-07-02T14:59:04.000Z2020-07-02T14:59:04.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p>Written by Sue Berthelot <br /> <br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">Manual Inventory Supplies: </span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">3X5 slips of paper or index cards </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Pencils with good erasers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Paperclips and rubber bands</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Copies of Repair Slips (See Page 47, Church Library Ministry Information Service)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Boxes for books needing special care once inventory is complete </span></li>
</ol>
<p><br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">In a manual (non-computerized) library, where the cards are typed and filed in the card catalog, use the shelf list file to perform the inventory. Organize your library team in to teams of two people. Each team will take one drawer of shelf list cards and work from that drawer. From experience, avoid removing the cards from the drawers. If the drawer is accidentally dropped or turned over, all of the hours of filing will need to be repeated. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">With needed supplies close at hand, one person on each team reads the title of the item, the call number and the accession number. The second person locates the item on the shelf. If an item is missing, carefully remove the shelf card from the file drawer and write in pencil “missing” and the date on the card. Return the card to the file drawer, but turn the card up on its end, in the file drawer, with the call number showing. </span><br /> <br /><span style="font-size:12pt;">Do not forget to check promotion items, furnishings and other items that have been processed. They are an important part of your inventory. Locating Missing Items Once the inventory is complete, the task of locating missing items begins. Consider the following possible places to find missing items: </span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Is the item checked out? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Is it in a display in or out of the library room? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">On Reserve? If located, replace the shelf list card to the correct place in the file drawer. </span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">For items not found, remove author, title and subject cards from the catalog drawer. </span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Band these cards together by subject headings</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Mark the date of the inventory on a cover card for each group. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Place cards in a small, labeled file box for “Lost Items” </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Keep cards for one year </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">If item has not been found after a year, remove from your accession book by drawing a line through the information with a pencil or delete it from database. </span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Caring for Problems As each team proceeds with the inventory, an item that needs some sort of repair should be removed from the shelf. Insert a repair slip in the book or case indicating the problem. Place the item in a box with other items needing to be repaired. Possible repair needs include: </span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">New Spine Label </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Item Incorrectly Processed </span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;">Caution If you are using an accession book, make copies of each page and store in a fire safe location. If disaster strikes, you will have needed information for insurance purposes to help replace your collection. If you are automated, store a backup of your complete database in a fire safe location. You may want to keep one copy at home and another in a different safe location.</span></p>
<p>_____________________ <br /><strong>Sue Berthelot</strong> is a LifeWay Church Library Ministry specialist and leader of the library team for Ascension Baptist Church in Gonzales, LA.</p>
<p>Cli<span style="font-size:12pt;">ck to download this article: <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6056066687,original{{/staticFileLink}}">Inventory Non Computerized</a></span></p></div>Conducting an Inventory in a Computerized Church Libraryhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/articles/conducting-an-inventory-in-a-computerized-church-library2020-06-30T14:03:28.000Z2020-06-30T14:03:28.000ZMorlee Maynardhttps://churchlibrarians.ning.com/members/MorleeMaynard<div><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Written by Sue Berthelot </span><br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Automated Inventory Supplies Needed: </strong></span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Printout of Shelf List or Bar Code Reader</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Pencils</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Copies of Repair Slips (Page 47, Church Library Ministry Information Service)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:12pt;">Boxes to handle books needing special care once inventory is complete </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Automated Libraries Without Bar Code Readers</strong> </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">In an automated library, without a bar code reader, assign each team (two people) a section of the printed shelf list. For efficiency, each team needs to stay within a particular age group and like media rather than cross between areas of the library. Each team has one member working from the shelf list while the other team member works from the shelf. Process steps follow: </span></span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">The shelf team member calls out the title, call number, and accession number of a book. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">The list team member notes if the book is next on the shelf list. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">If correct, the list team member simply says, “Yes”, and proceeds to next book.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">If the next book on list is missing from the shelf, the list team member notes “Missing” on the list beside the title of the missing book. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">For a missing book in a series, include the series title and volume number and note on the list.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">If a book is on the shelf but is not listed on the shelf list, place the book in a separate stack to go to the workroom for processing. This inventory process will continue until the assigned section is finished. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">If the team is unable to complete assigned area in one work session, note on the shelf list where the process stopped in order to avoid going over a completed area again. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Check promotion displays, furnishings and objects that have been processed into collection. They are also an important part of your inventory. </span></span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Automated Libraries with Bar Code Readers</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Libraries with bar codes and a portable reader will find the inventory process fast and efficient. </span></span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Using portable Bar Code reader, tip each item out and scan. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Begin with the printed materials on the shelves. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Next, scan the audiovisual items. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Next, check promotional items, furnishings and objects that have been processed as part of your collection. They are also an important part of your inventory. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Next, check all displays for missing items that are part of your collection. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Finally, verify items that are checked out. </span></span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Locating Missing Items</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"> Once the inventory is complete, the task of locating missing items begins. Consider the following possible places to find missing items: </span></span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Is the item checked out? </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Is it in a display in or out of the library room? </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">On Reserve? If missing items are not located, follow the procedures for your automation program and make the appropriate notes. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Print the list of missing items and file it in your desk book. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Do not delete the items for at least one year, because items may suddenly reappear in the library. If items are still in your data base, they will not need to be processed again. If missing items are not located after one year, follow the procedures provided by your automation program. </span></span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Caring for Problems</strong></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"> As each team proceeds with the inventory, an item that needs some sort of repair should be removed from the shelf. Insert a repair slip in the book or case indicating the problem. Place the item in a box with other items needing to be repaired. Possible repair needs include: </span></span></p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">New Spine Label </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Item Incorrectly Processed </span></span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Final Thought</strong> </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Once the inventory is complete, make three back up copies of your database. Keep one in the library, one at home and one in a fire safe location. Be sure the collection is covered by insurance should there be a disaster. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">____________</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><strong> Sue Berthelo</strong>t is a Church Library Ministry specialist and leader of the library team for Ascension Baptist Church in Gonzales, LA.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;">Click here to download article:</span></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}6056066881,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Conducting an Inventory in a Computerized Church Library</span></a></p>
<p> </p></div>