Book Talks Promoting the Library and Creating Community

Abstract

Book talks, however defined, have been programming staples in all types of libraries. In theological libraries, they tend to be focused on faculty authors, or perhaps members of the institutional community. The COVID-19 pandemic, of course, has thrown a wrench into how or if book talks are offered, and has changed how these events are developed and implemented. In this session, three library directors discussed what book talks look like in their libraries and offered practical suggestions for building similar programming. This included discussion of how book talks contribute to institutional missions and goals, and how they demonstrate value.