Compiled by Jean Taylor and Grace Young ­­­­for the Memphis School of Preaching

Distributed by Wendell Winkler, The Preacher and his Work Class, c. 1987.

A preacher’s books are his tools, companions, and resources. They contribute significantly to his success in church work as they enable him to help people understand the Word of God. That understanding improves the likelihood that one will defeat Satan and go to heaven. One’s library therefore is an investment in eternity, and should receive proper thought as to organization.

Why should I arrange and number my books?

  • To make better use of your library.
  • To keep track of your books.

Arrangement

Plan and give thought and time to the arrangement of your books.

  • Write your name and purchase date, and cost, etc. in every book.
  • Divide your library into the various categories that you consider best for your own needs.
  • Sections
  • Classifications or categories
  • Make movable labels for your shelves (and then place your books where you think you will want them. Check and make changes if necessary). Example: A book on Restoration History belongs to the Restoration section of your library, ­­ but also to the Restoration History classification of that section.

Records

You will need a permanent record of your books. Make a complete record of every book that you own ­­ and a copy of that record to keep in a lock box or vault.

Loose­-leaf books are available for records of books.

Information to keep about each book:

  • Author
  • Name of book
  • Publisher
  • Copyright date (first one given)
  • Price paid for the book

Files

Card files ­help to find a book by either author, classification (subject matter), or the title of the book. This is especially useful in large libraries.

Make three cards for each book:

  • Author (use last name first: “Doe, John C.”).
  • Title
  • Classification

A card file box is needed to alphabetically arrange the cards according to their author, title, and classification. (In alphabetical arrangement leave off little words like “the” in the title. Also, file the author cards by the last name of the author.)

For “checking out” books:

Pocket glued into the back of the book should have…

Author of book

Title of book

Stamp of your library name (or your personal name)

Card in the pocket should tell the name of author and title of book

Stickers which say “In memory of” or “Presented to” can be purchased for books which are donated to the library.