We recently asked our community of Christian authors and publishers about the importance of Christian books and libraries. We received over 10,000 words in responses from 22 countries across 4 continents! Welcome to the final post in our series of three—thanks to insights shared by members of our community in Europe and Latin America.
A lifeline for isolated communities in Scotland
“A library so good is a rare thing, and to find it on the Isle of Mull is astonishing. I can’t help thinking of Matthew 13:52, a scribe trained for the kingdom of heaven, like a master of the house, bringing out treasure old and new. It reminds me again of how a physical printed book can find its way to the most unlikely places and be unearthed—but also how it can last and remain.
Since discovering the library here, I have become a trustee. I work there regularly to research, look up references in books we are publishing, keep abreast of what is published, glean ideas for formats and cover design, and borrow books. We have also started a prayer meeting, meeting to share food, fellowship and pray in the library once a fortnight. For many of us in this isolated community, the library is a lifeline, and it has become a center for meeting other Christians and for the tiny scattered churches to gather together.” Stephanie Heald, Scotland
The need for libraries for emerging generations in Mexico
“My mother had a small lending library at the church when I was growing up. It was incredibly helpful for Christians who could not afford books. When I was serving in a different area with my husband, we put together a small library. Those who read enjoyed relating to fictional characters, and I believe it encouraged them in their Christian life.
Today, when we reach out in areas with less affluence, I immediately notice the need for libraries. They would make such a difference—especially for the younger generation, which is more accustomed to reading than their parents (who grew up without phones, but also without access to many books).” Erika Simone, Mexico
Looking for Christian libraries and books in Costa Rica
“In my community, there is no library of this kind. For the Christian writer, references are based on books purchased in bookstores and on personal life testimonies. Courses provide materials along with bibliographic references, which are searched for on the internet. My church does not have a library, only a few books for children. For spiritual growth courses, material is provided in printed anthologies about the topic under study.
I believe it is very important to have a library space in churches to provide access to books without having to buy them, considering the economic situation of many families, as well as providing support material for new Christians. It does not require a large space, but I believe the scope of the study of the Word could have a great impact on the Christian community.” José Gonzalez Vargas, Costa Rica
“I remember seeing one library in a local seminary—it’s usually locked up, but you can ask for the key. A big state university near us has two libraries that are open for a few hours from Monday to Friday, which you can access only if you have a student card. Otherwise…libraries are hard to find here!” Ian Darke, Costa Rica
One main reference source for Christian books in Panama
“In Panama, we do not really have Christian libraries in the traditional sense. The main reference for the Christian community has been CLC for more than twenty years. CLC is the best-known source for Christian books, Bibles, study materials, and other faith-based resources. They have several locations across the country and are affiliated with an international ministry dedicated to distributing Christian literature.
Most churches do not maintain large public libraries, and Christian schools or colleges generally have limited collections that are primarily available to students. As a result, many Christians in Panama rely on CLC as their primary source for Christian books and resources. Their staff comes from different Christian backgrounds and denominations, and they are known for serving the wider Christian community.” Hiram René Harris, Panama
Open doors—Christian books in public libraries in Bulgaria
“In Bulgaria, there are very few churches with libraries that I’m aware of. In the rare cases that I know of, the majority of the books are non-fiction—Bible studies, commentaries, devotionals, and testimonies. If there are fiction books, they are usually from a classical genre, like historical fiction. For books like mine—Christian fantasy and science fiction—there is almost no space.
We do have a network of public libraries, including in many schools. Publishers are required to provide several copies of their book to the national library. My book is available in a municipality library, as well as several school libraries, in addition to the national library. (A local municipality had invited me to present my book in several high schools, which resulted in this.)” Dilyan Konstantinov, Bulgaria
A haven needed for every church and city
“Christian libraries and bookstores are havens that should exist in every church and every city. They are a resource to turn to when we need to find Bibles, study guides, and even leisure materials that minister to our minds and hearts.
Our family has made a commitment to sow our books in every country we visit. We want to be part of that beautiful mission! At our church, we have a library where you can borrow Christian books. Our church also sells Christian books, and we make available a perpetual planner to accompany your reading.” Cintia Peralta Martin, Argentina