Strengthening Libraries in Christian Institutions in Developing Countries

Strengthening Libraries in Christian Institutions in
Developing Countries

Invitation

A network of volunteer Christian librarians is being formed to support the development of libraries in evangelical Christian educational institutions in developing countries. To that end, we would like to invite you to a meeting to learn more about how we, as Christian librarians, can help support these libraries. Although this is a joint project of the Reformed Church of America and the Christian Reformed Church of North America, any interested Christian librarian is welcome to attend.

The need: A growing number of Bible schools, seminaries and K-12 Christian schools recognize that their libraries are outdated, poorly organized, and have almost no viability in the Information Age. Requests for help have come from several institutions around the world. As word is getting out that help may be available, the number of inquiries for help is increasing.

Purpose of the meeting: To establish a pool of volunteer librarians and other interested supporters who are willing to assist in the development of these libraries. Your attendance would be greatly appreciated. If you know of any others who might be interested in receiving an invitation to this meeting please let us know immediately.

Objectives of the meeting:

1. Learn about the project. Major program areas of potential assistance include institutional and staff development, collection development, and information resources development. Reaction and input are invited.
2. Review specific ministry opportunities: How could you get involved in supporting a specific need? Would you consider spending a few weeks in a developing country? If you are willing to do so, what do you need to know about appointments and financing? If you are unable to work on-site in a developing country, what are some other ways you can support the Network?
3. Discuss some of the unique challenges of working internationally and cross-culturally as a librarian.
4. Suggestions as to where we go from here. Are there others that you may know of that might be interested in joining the network?

Meeting details:

When: November 3, 2007
9:00-12:00 AM
Lunch will be provided.

Where: Christian Reformed World Missons
2850 Kalamazoo S.E.
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506

RSVP to Ray Bouma no later than October 15, 2007. If you have any questions regarding this project or need directions, etc., please contact me:
Phone: (630) 279-1278
Email: boumar@crcna.org