Date: June 16, 2026
Ministry at a seminary takes on many forms, including some that may not be immediately visible. The library is one such place where ministry is practiced daily. At the Bishop Payne Library, I have come to understand librarianship as a form of ministry rooted in hospitality, service, and education.
Each day begins before students, faculty, and staff arrive. I help prepare the library by opening the building, checking in returned books, organizing resources, and ensuring the space is ready to welcome those seeking knowledge and spiritual growth. While many assume librarians simply work with books, my role extends far beyond that. Through my work, I support the formation of future church leaders.
I guide students through research challenges, connect faculty with scholarly resources, assist visiting researchers, and help create an environment where learning can flourish. Whether I am answering a reference question, locating a source, or presenting materials, each task contributes to the broader mission of theological education.
Perhaps most importantly, librarianship is a ministry of presence. What I value most are the daily interactions at the circulation desk, the opportunity to offer encouragement to a stressed student, or help a patron navigate their academic journey. These seemingly small moments embody the compassion, hospitality, and service that lie at the heart of Christian ministry. Through these interactions, I have come to see the seminary library as more than a repository of knowledge; it is a place of ministry, community, and care where individuals are welcomed, supported, and empowered in their learning and spiritual formation.
Bianca Farmer
Library Administrative Assistant