Library

History

Motivated by a desire to serve God and by a love of learning, Pastor Richard L. Waldrop developed a voracious appetite to read about the life experiences, thoughts, sermons, and prayers of the saints throughout the ages. Not only did this knowledge inspire, edify and enlighten him, but it also aided the Mt Zion Church Family though his leadership, sermons, counsel, and teachings. Over the course of many years, Pastor Waldrop studied and accumulated an array of books, which served as source material, as well as background and practical application resources for the family of God.

It was with the well being of the Mt Zion Family in mind that Pastor Waldrop and Mrs. Mary Waldrop, in September 1990, made the decision to contribute their treasury of approximately 5,000 books to the Mt Zion Missionary Baptist Church Family. Pastor Waldrop's hope was that the books would be appreciated, and utilized to spread knowledge and help others to receive the blessings of spiritual enrichment and practical insights for their daily Christian walks. The spiritual value of their donation was un-quantifiable but the monetary value of the books was approximately $34,000.00. Two libraries were established. One library, approximately 1,350 books, was in the Pastor's study for the exclusive use of the pastoral ministry unless otherwise authorized. The second library, located on the second floor, was formally named The Richard L Waldrop Library in the October 1992 Church business meeting. That library was established for use by the general church membership. Both libraries were formally dedicated on Sunday, May 16, 1993 and in 1996 Deacon Benjamin and Sister Lynne Harper donated approximately 500 additional books to the library.

Composition

Books in The Richard L Waldrop Library are comprised of two major categories, which are religion and church administration. There are also a much smaller number of books, which pertain to secular knowledge in the fields of science, English, poetry, psychology, history, and contemporary social problems. All of these have some nexus with the spiritual development of man and the growth of intelligence.

The Religion section of the library contains: Bible Versions, Bible Commentaries, Bible Dictionaries, Devotionals, Concordances, Bible Biographies, Bible Histories, sacred music, and Bible Character information. It also contains a large number of inspirational books dealing with Christian struggles, failures, and triumphs. These provide practical guidelines and instructions relating to spiritual warfare and growth in the lives of believers.

The Church Administration section of the library contains guidelines for officers and staff of the church, instructions for church growth and outreach, ministries information, community impact information, program planning instructions, fellowship building information, program protocol and etiquette within the church, Doctrine of Baptist churches, how to instructions for conducting meetings and, the duties and responsibilities of members, deacons, trustees etc.

All books in both libraries have been indexed on hard copy and computer, using the Dewey decimal classification. The library indices are sorted in alphabetical order by book title and also by author surname. Additionally, The Richard L Waldrop Library contains audio-visual and computer equipment as well as tapes of various Church events. Flip charts and chalkboards are also available for group study.

You May Be Able To Help

The Church is currently seeking additional volunteer librarians, who will commit to serving at least two hours during specific hours and days of the week. Any member desiring to volunteer should contact the Library Coordinator to arrange for formal training and instructions. One of the Trustees should be able to direct you to the proper individual.

info@mtzionglendale.com