A Word from the Editor

In the spring of 2019, I received a scholarship from Atla to attend an Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) RoadShow in Chicago. The scholarship covered my flights to and from Chicago, my hotel room, and my meals. I had a good time learning about some of the changes to copyright law and scholarly communication. However, what stood out to me at the ACRL RoadShow was an announcement that Atla was looking for an editor-in-chief for this journal, Theological Librarianship (TL). I inquired about it, applied, and was appointed to the position a few months later.

TL, I am stepping down. My term ends in June of this year, and this issue will be the last I oversee as editor-in-chief. While Atla and TL have undergone a number of changes, my reason for leaving this position is related more so to other obligations, which are making it increasingly difficult for me to find time to lead TL (I am sure many can relate).

My favorite part of editing has been reviewing content prior to pushing it into what we call “production.” The content I have read in my role as editor-in-chief has been exceptional and, in many cases, challenged me to think about how I practice librarianship and integrate my faith into the profession. The content I had the privilege of reviewing for this current issue is no exception. Christa Strickler’s article, titled “Questioning ‘Illegal Aliens,’” provides an excellent example of intersecting librarianship and theological studies. In this context, Strickler provides insight into how the application of theological and biblical truth should drive every aspect of our professional endeavors, particularly subject headings. Strickler’s article provides great insight regarding what this topic might look like under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

The privilege of reviewing articles like this is what I will miss most from my role with TL. Secondly, I have had the privilege of leading a fantastic team of editors: Jesse Mann, Kaeley McMahan, Denise Nelson, Romulus Stefanut, and Dee Roberts. Apart from their work, dedication, leadership, and sense of humor, TL would not be where it is currently.

With that, Atla provides a context desiring TL (and its other publications) to thrive. Stepping into the role of TL’s editor-in-chief has been one of the best professional development endeavors I have pursued. It takes time, but through the investment of TL’s editorial team and Atla in both me and the journal, it has been an incredible learning experience. Honestly, it was not a difficult choice to step down simply because of priorities, but I will miss many components of this role, including the support Atla provides to make TL thrive.

Thank you for six great years as editor-in-chief of TL!

Soli Deo gloria,

Garrett B. Trott
Editor-in-Chief, Theological Librarianship