Date: August 10, 2021
Has a library user ever considered the work that allows them to identify, select and obtain the materials that they need for class and research? The life cycle of a library collection encompasses selection, ordering, receiving, cataloging, labeling, and repairing of materials. Selection involves anticipating the needs of current faculty and students before they do. The collection will reflect the growth and evolution of the church itself. A library’s collection will evolve as the community that it serves evolves. Some voices that were prominent in the past will dim while others will increase in importance, but all will be preserved.
The library’s collection must have the depth and breadth for researchers. Proper cataloging enables library users to locate materials by author, title, and subject. Although the library collection strives to fulfill the needs of current students and faculty, the special collections and rare books preserve the history and heritage of the Episcopal Church and differentiate Virginia Theological Seminary from other institutions. All the work of creating and maintaining this collection requires meticulous attention to detail, a knowledge of trends in theology, the Episcopal Church and the surrounding local community and world, and a thorough understanding of professional library standards for cataloging and repair.
The careful curation of the collection by dedicated professional librarians over the last two centuries will ensure that the resources of Bishop Payne Library will be available on the two hundredth anniversary of Virginia Theological Seminary and beyond.
Bradley Hess, MLS, MA
Technical Services Librarian
Bishop Payne Library