Libraries and librarians are indispensable to student learning and the formation of researchers at the doctoral level. This book identifies five areas and sixteen principles that need to be considered by theological schools when optimizing library operations to serve doctoral programs. As an illustration of these principles, the book provides narratives from four theological libraries - in Nairobi, Hong Kong, Bangalore, and Amsterdam - that have successfully transitioned to serve doctoral programs. The contributors present tested best practice alongside their successful experiences pioneering libraries that serve doctoral programs in challenging situations. An invaluable training resource for Majority World librarians, this book also offers insight into quality guidelines for accreditation agencies supporting theological institutions in developing robust and flourishing programs.
About the Author :
KATHARINA PENNER was born in Soviet Kyrgyzstan and lives in Vienna. She holds two master's degrees and is working towards a PhD in theological education. She has worked as a faculty member and library director at theological schools in Russia, the Czech Republic, and Austria, and is currently serving as coordinator for library development at the Eurasian Accrediting Association.
Review :
This timely and important work acknowledges the professional, economic, and administrative challenges facing theological educators in nations under pressure, but chooses to focus on solutions rather than problems. It provides sophisticated, nuanced, and realistic guidance for administrators, librarians, and other advocates who are trying to address the information needs of graduate students and scholars in the Majority World.
Thomas E. Phillips, PhD
Director, Digital Theological Library
This book is full of practical and adaptable examples and suggestions by specialist professionals, and it also provides step-by-step guidelines that any school can easily follow to create or upgrade its library in order to efficiently respond to the needs of its PhD program.
Jung-Sook Lee, PhD
Vice Chairperson, Asia Theological Association
Best Practice Guidelines is a key contribution for any school in the Majority World. Its significance lies in the premise on which the whole book stands - that the library plays an indispensable role in any program, but especially in doctoral programs. The library is the main pillar on which the whole academic matrix rests safely.
Walid Zailaa
Academic Dean and Head Librarian, Arab Baptist Theological Seminary, Beirut, Lebanon
