Point of View

Bookstores are "the place to be" these days. Why not translate that interest to your church library? If your library's the best-kept secret at church, consider closing it briefly for renovations, then celebrate a grand re-opening.

Begin by ruthlessly disposing of clutter and outdated items. If the area is dark, lighten the color scheme, update lighting, or install a large plate window to open the library to the hallway. Redecorate with fresh paint, plants and Christian art. Rearrange shelving, and add a comfy chair or two and a lamp. Build a reading nook for kids. Install a book return drop slot and install directional signs in church hallways.

Create an inviting atmosphere. Serve coffee, tea or cappuccino and play soft background Christian music. Recruit joyful volunteers who love God, books and people, and devise a painless method of book checkout. Post consistent, convenient hours, and joyfully open before and after every church event.

Prepare a book-of-the-month display case in the church foyer and list new books on the church website or newsletter. A "recommended reading" section of the library can feature favorite books of your pastor or church leaders. When members inquire about contributing books, be prepared with a printed wish-list and prices. Encourage members to donate their new Christian books to the library after they read them. Acknowledge books donated in memory of friends and family in the church newsletter. A Sunday School class may plan a book shower to enhance inventory, or as an alternative to Christmas gift-giving, could draw names and purchase a library book in that class member's honor.

Invent reasons for people to come inside. For example, on Daylight Savings Sunday, invite accidental early arrivers to the library. Ask new church members to stop by the library for a free gift, such as a Scripture bookmark. Host a story time for preschool classes during worship. Offer the library as a pickup point for sermon CDs, church information and event registration forms. Set up a computer workstation with links about salvation, missions, and church newsletter or website.

Do library evangelism. Display witnessing tracts and encourage library volunteers to share their faith. Print bookmarks with library hours on one side and the plan of salvation on the reverse. Offer a summer reading program for children or adults. Invite the community to a free weekday kid's story-time and open the library for outside use. Challenge members to share Christian books with unsaved friends. (My friend, Gwen, found Christ after reading a Christian novel!)

Make your church library a happening place. Instead of "We have a library?" they'll say, "Meet you at the library!"

Diana Davis's new book, Fresh Ideas—1000 Ways to Grow a Thriving and Energetic Church is available in Christian bookstores and Amazon.com.