American Theological Library Association Celebrates 60 Years
The American Theological Library Association (ATLA) celebrated its 60th anniversary with a record-breaking annual conference hosting over 400 people.
Held June 21-24 in Chicago, the ATLA conference was praised by the association’s executive director as the largest and most impressive gathering ever.
“More and more theological librarians are taking advantage of this opportunity to update their skills and network with colleagues,” said Executive Director Dennis A. Norlin in a report released on Wednesday. “I am really encouraged by the fact that so many papers are being submitted for presentation now – more than can be accommodated. We’re seeing more professional involvement. People are energized and engaged.”
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The conference featured reflections and practical tips on theological librarianship with well-known theological historian Martin Marty at the opening plenary session. Marty, who has authored more than 50 books, spoke about the history and influence of religious movements.
Attendees had the opportunity to attend workshops on topics such as online instruction and evaluation of reference resources as well as participate in roundtable and panel discussions.
“It’s essential for librarians to stay on top of new developments and address common problems,” said technical services specialist and ATLA member Judy Knop at the conference. “The future of cataloging is very much in the news in the library world at this point. At the conference, technical services librarians were able to discuss trends and update their knowledge of a new cataloging code – which was being written even as we met.”
The closing plenary session, led by Dr. Daniel Aleshire, Executive Director of the Association of Theological Schools, focused on the future of theological librarianship and the continued collaboration between the two associations.
A special highlight of the conference was ATLA’s 60th Anniversary celebration, which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the association’s new headquarters in Chicago.
The American Theological Library Association was established in 1946 and is a professional association of more than 1,000 individuals, institutional, and affiliate members providing programs, products, and services in support of theological and religious studies libraries and librarians. ATLA has an ecumenical membership and provides access to the scholarly literature of religion and preserves resources for future generation.
