While a church library is certainly a valuable resource to a congregation, it is a ministry that requires long-term commitment and dedicated volunteers.

Not a Sunday morning passes that someone doesn’t happen upon our church library for the first time, often by accident on the way to pick up a cup of coffee.

I like to watch for it—the look—an expression that says, “I’ve stumbled upon a treasure chest full of goodies.” Bible study materials, family-friendly movies, the latest and greatest Christian fiction, and VeggieTales for the kids, all free and available for checkout any time the building is open.

While some pastors see libraries as “old school,” choosing to discontinue them or to replace them with bookstores, church libraries can still be vital and relevant ministries.

In fact, the tough economic times of the past couple of years have made this more evident than ever.

The main purpose of a church library should be to support the mission of the local body. Rita Kirkland, a librarian at First Baptist Church in Euless, Texas, aptly describes it as “encircling the ministries in our church and supporting them with our resources and talents.”

A church library is a storehouse of materials that reinforces a church’s message or aids people who want to dig deeper. Libraries have also become a place where individuals and families can find entertainment that uplifts spirits and enlightens minds instead of assaulting their values.

Read More: http://www.christianitytoday.com/yc/2010/summer/churchlibraryrelevant.html