Church Library

Our collection is organized by broad category.   Most books have sign out cards which can be signed and placed in the small wooden box found on a shelf next to the library desk.  If a book does not have a book card, please print the title and your name on the clipboard next to the wooden book card holder.

We are using a website called LibraryThing to list our books.  You can keep an eye on what is currently entered into our online LibraryThing list by clicking on the link below.

St. John's  LibraryThing page

Click here to see directions on using LibraryThing

Library Mission

It is the mission of the SJ library to collect books and other modern media that offer entertainment, information, and insight into all areas of sound Christian and Episcopal belief and practice.  It is not the purpose of the library to provide materials that are widely available in public and school libraries.

Purchases/Wishlist

Please consider purchasing from our Wishlists (or, if you prefer to purchase elsewhere (but still from the Wishlist), let us know so we can remove the item from the wishlist).

There are 2 ways to access a wishlist:

Wishlist on AMAZON

(this list is often less expensive)

or

Similar Wishlist on Bookshop.org 

(proceeds from this list benefit Elizabeth’s Writing Center in Akron)

Purchases are always guided by our church and library mission statements, with consideration of current needs. Specific titles are approved or selected by our Priest. Suggestions for books you would like to see may be emailed to or dropped off in the church office. Book plates indicating an item was purchased “In Memory Of . . .” or as a “Gift of . . .” can be placed in items purchased by individuals or groups. 

Borrowing

Print the name of the book, author and your name on the paper in the clip board on the shelf by the desk. You can also use the card system:  If a book has a book card in the front or back of the book, please PRINT your first and last name on the card along with the date and place it in the small wooden container on the shelf to the right of the desk. 

Returns

Place the book next to the check out list. Cross off the book title and your name on the clipboard.  If you used the card, please find the card and replace it in the book and cross off the book title and your name on the clipboard.  Please do not reshelve returned books.

Donations

Any items donated for the parish library will be evaluated according to current need, relevance, and alignment with our library and parish mission. Not all donated books will be accepted and may be offered to the public for free, recycled, or donated to another organization.