Every year there are hundreds of new books released from a huge number of publishers in just about every subject that you can think of–how you do know which titles are right for your church library? Who has time to keep up with all of the new releases and filter through the good, the bad, and the amazing? We do.
Every year for as long as any of us can remember Faith & Life has hosted a Church Librarian’s Day in late summer or early fall. I have been privileged to be a part of this day since 2010, the first year I worked here at the store. This event is one of our biggest of the year. It is a lot of work, but it is so much fun for all of us–both those who work at the store and those who attend. Who doesn’t love talking about books all day long?
This year we have scheduled our Church Librarian’s Day for Saturday, August 26 from 9am-2pm
What exactly is Church Librarian’s Day? It is a special day set aside where we invite church librarian’s from churches all over the area to gather and hear about what new books have come out in the past year. The staff and I compile lists of titles released in the past year from a wide variety of publishers and distributors. We group the titles by sections (biography, fiction, social issues, etc.) and walk through these lists with all who come. It’s a great time where we can talk about some of our favorite books from the previous year, hear feedback from the librarians about books they have read that they might recommend (or not), and enjoy a day full of one of my favorite subjects–books! It’s always great to hear the conversations around the table as everyone in attendance learns from those around them–and we all walk away knowing more than when we came.
Of course, as with any great gathering there is food–snacks in the morning and a great lunch complete with delicious desserts! In the afternoon we set aside time for questions and browsing in the store. Any orders placed by those in attendance receive an extra 5% on top of our regular library discount of 20%. That’s a savings of 25% off all orders placed by the deadline (usually a week after the event). You do not have to limit your order to items that are discussed during the event–some libraries come with a pre-made list of items that they know they need–and that’s great!
The best part about this day–it’s absolutely free!!! Library committees are welcome to come together, we only ask that you RSVP by August 23 so we can adequately plan for the numbers. If your church doesn’t have a library, but you want to know about the latest releases, please check with us–there may be space available for you to attend.
If you need more convincing that this event is right for you or your church–here are some thoughts of one of our past attendees:
Just a word of thanks for once again providing us with a wonderful opportunity to hear about and browse through the new books for the year. This ability to see and touch these new products makes the decision making much easier. The lovely luncheon and visiting with other librarians is always enjoyable and also profitable. Thanks again for planning this lovely event. —Sheryl, Moundridge
Click Here to RSVP for this event. Leave your Name, Church Name, number attending, and if there are any dietary needs.
I hope to see lots both new and returning faces, on Saturday, August 26!
Bethany
