ASDAL ACTION
DIGITIZING WILLIAM MILLER’S
CORRESPONDENCE, P 4
ASDAL Action
Volume 44, No. 1 | Fall 2024
ISSN 1523-8997
Editor Tamara Karr
About ASDAL
ASDAL is an organization for individuals interested in Seventh-day Adventist librarianship. The Association was formed to enhance communication between Seventh-day Adventist librarians and to promote librarianship and library services to Seventh-day Adventist institutions.
The association holds an Annual Conference, publishes ASDAL Action, awards the D. Glenn Hilts Scholarship, and is a sponsor of the Seventh-day Adventist Periodical Index. The Adventist Library Information Cooperative (ALICE) is a service provided by the Association to give Member Libraries enhanced database access opportunities at reduced cost through collective efforts and resource sharing within the Cooperative.
Letters to the Editor
We welcome your comments and questions. Please submit letters to the editor to actioneditor@asdal.org
Membership is open to those who support the goals of the Association. Members receive a oneyear subscription to ASDAL Action and discounted conference registration.
Get Involved with ASDAL
All members are invited to get involved in ASDAL. On the ASDAL website, select Get Involved on the quick links.
ASDAL Executive Committee
President: Adorée Hatton
President-elect: Sheila Clark
Past President: Michelle Carbonilla
Secretary: Maryann Krueger
Treasurer: Neal Smith
ASDAL Action Editor: Tamara Karr
contents
50 Years of Roy Graham Library. Read more on page 10
FEATURES
4
8 CAR AND ADL TO DIGITIZE
WILLIAM MILLER’S
CORRESPONDENCE
BY KATHARINE VAN ARSDALE
10 REMARKABLE JOURNEY 50
YEARS OF ROY GRAHAM
LIBRARY
BY OLGICA MILANOVA
HONORING A VISIONARY: THE
CHRISTENING OF THE FRITZ GUY
LIBRARY
BY MICHELLE ROJAS AND KELLY REED
COLUMNS, CONFERENCE, ETC.
3
25
FROM THE PRESIDENT
12 44TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPORT
BYTES & BITS
Dear Members,
Over the past year, we have been working closely with members to lay the foundation for a new, international organizational structure that will allow us to expand our impact, reach, and inclusivity within the global library community.
Earlier this year, our membership voted to transition our association from a national to an international scope. This means our current Executive Committee is now serving as our first International Committee, dedicated to guiding our efforts on a larger stage. Alongside this, we are establishing a North American Chapter, which will ensure that we maintain a robust presence and engagement with our local colleagues while we extend our connections abroad. This chapter will join the African, Latin American, and European chapters; the hope is to continue to welcome more regional chapters across different parts of the world.
This transition has been possible thanks to the collective vision and dedication of our members, who recognized the unique role our association can play on an international level. We are committed to enhancing support for each member as we evolve, fostering collaboration, and advancing library practice globally. Our shared mission to enhance communication between Seventh-day Adventist librarians and to serve as a forum for discussion of mutual problems and professional concerns of Seventh-day Adventist librarians remains at the heart of everything we do.
In the coming months, we will be sharing updates on our new international initiatives, chapter development, and additional opportunities for involvement. Together, we are poised to make a significant impact on the world library community, advancing our shared values across borders.
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm as we step into this new chapter. I am thrilled to be on this journey together with each of you.
With warm regards,
Adorée Hatton Makusztak President, ASDAL
Adorée Hatton Makusztak is the Research and Instruction Librarian at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, California.
CENTER FOR ADVENTIST RESEARCH AND ADVENTIST DIGITAL LIBRARY TO DIGITIZE
WILLIAM MILLER’S CORRESPONDENCE
By Katharine Van Arsdale
We are excited to announce the first stage of a multiyear collaborative project between Aurora University (Aurora, Illinois), Andrews University’s Center for Adventist Research (CAR), and the Adventist Digital Library (ADL) to digitize Aurora’s Jenks Memorial Collection of Adventual Materials. The Jenks collection comprises over 350 linear feet of printed and handwritten materials, including books, tracts, periodicals, broadsides, personal correspondence, diaries, and unpublished manuscripts that represent the lives of William Miller, Joshua V. Himes, and countless other Adventists. These invaluable sources are very rare or unique and are difficult for researchers to easily access indeed, this significant collection at Aurora University is primarily known only to those with word-ofmouth information. For years, devoted scholars have made the trek to rural Illinois to consult the Jenks Col-
lection, and particularly 800 letters of William Miller’s correspondence held by Aurora University. Thanks to the partnership between Aurora, CAR, and ADL, scholars will soon have free and easy access to these precious documents worldwide through the Adventist Digital Library.
Aurora University was founded in 1893 by Advent Christians, a denomination that, like the Seventh-day Adventist Church, arose in the wake of the Great Disappointment. However, Aurora University dropped its denominational affiliation in 1971. While these historical religious materials remain important to Aurora’s heritage, their library has no budget to improve access to the Jenks Collection. An outside partnership would offer a path to preserve and share these important Adventist resources. With a similar denominational history, a Seventh-day Adventist institution seemed like a perfect fit. Since nearby Andrews University is home to both the Center for Adventist Research and the Adventist Digital Library, Aurora University asked if collaboration was possible, and Andrews University enthusiastically agreed. Project paperwork was drafted and signed in the summer. By the start of the academic year, work was underway.
In August, CAR Director Dr. Kevin Burton and ADL Digital Librarian Katharine Van Arsdale traveled to Aurora and picked up the first seven boxes of the William Miller collection, as well as a broadside by Ellen Harmon titled “To the Little Remnant Scattered Abroad,” published April 6, 1846. The broadside is in impeccable condition and may be the finest copy extant. The seven Miller collection boxes contain letters from about 1814 to 1842, a record book kept during Miller’s tenure as Sheriff (1809-1811), and drafts of essays and sermons, among other treasures. The first box has been scanned, and the first four folders of material are already available through the Adventist Digital Library, with much more to come.
Prior to transferring the material, Aurora University’s cataloger recorded item-level metadata for the Miller Collection using Dublin Core, the standard used by the Adventist Digital Library. A small grant provided funding for ADL to hire two students to digitize the Miller papers according to industry standards. When scanning is done, both Aurora University and CAR will receive complete copies of the digitized collection to preserve, thereby backing up the work in multiple locations. The files will be shared freely online
by each institution according to the Creative Commons BY-NC-ND License.
The teams at Aurora and Andrews Universities are committed to the success of this project. Joint grant applications are being written, and the Aurora University and ADL librarians are spreading the word about the project through scholarship, starting with a collaborative poster session at the Illinois Library Association conference in October 2024.
Interested supporters are invited to follow the progress of digitization and upload by regularly visiting the Manuscripts and Papers of William Miller on the Adventist Digital Library: https:// adl.b2.adventistdigitallibrary.org/collections/301f324f0ead-48f5-8532-637769acf064
Financial support is vital to make this project possible. Invest in the work by giving here: https:// vault.andrews.edu/vault/app/pages/advancement/ login?desg=ADIGLIB&only=y
Katharine Van Arsdale is the Digital Librarian for the Adventist Digital Library.
HONORING A VISIONARY: THE CHRISTENING OF THE FRITZ GUY LIBRARY
By Michelle Rojas and Kelly Reed
For decades, La Sierra University's library operated without a formal name, a reflection of its humble beginnings and evolving role within the institution. However, this changed on November 9, 2023, when the University's Board of Trustees officially named the library in honor of Dr. Fritz Guy, a beloved former president and an influential figure in the university's history. This announcement coincided with the library's 50th anniversary celebration, marking a significant milestone in both the library's legacy and Dr. Guy's enduring impact on the university community.
Dr. Fritz Guy was both La Sierra University’s founding president from 1990-1993 and a professor who taught classes at La Sierra for decades. A champion of the library, Dr. Guy was also a pastor, a theologian, and an academic administrator, and he was a key contributor to the 1980 Statement of Fundamental Beliefs.
Special Collections & Reference Librarian Michelle Rojas with the Fritz Guy display in the library lobby
The library’s name unveiling ceremony honoring Dr. Guy took place on April 20, 2024, during the La Sierra University Alumni Homecoming weekend. A permanent display about Dr. Guy, featuring many of his possessions, books, and awards graciously lent by his family, is installed in the library’s lobby. The display was created by Special Collections & Reference Librarian Michelle Rojas with much help from Library Director Jeff de Vries and Library Administration Assistant Sumbal Shaffi.
Dr. Fritz Guy's legacy at La Sierra University extends far beyond his tenure as its founding president. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence, progressive Adventist thought, and nurturing the next generation of scholars has left an indelible mark on the institution. The Fritz Guy Library stands as a testament to his belief that libraries are the heart of a university, fostering the exploration and advancement of knowledge that he so passionately championed throughout his career.
Michelle Rojas, is the Reference and Special Collections Librarian at the Fritz Guy Library at La Sierra University.
Kelly Reed, is the Reference and Instruction Librarian, and Chair of Public Services at the Fritz Guy Library at La Sierra University.
REMARKABLE JOURNEY—50 YEARS OF ROY GRAHAM LIBRARY
By Olgica Milanova
We are delighted to share with our fellow Adventist Librarians that Roy Graham Library on the campus of Newbold College celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Although the official “Birthday” was on 20 April, for the staff, students, alumni, and former staff, the whole year has felt jubilant.
Since its foundation in 1901, Newbold College has always had a library – in one form or another. However, in 1974, it received a separate, specially designed building to serve the academic needs of the faculty, students, and broader audience. It was built as a simple two-story structure with more study spaces and room for books and journals than ever before. Most importantly, it housed the European Ellen G. White Research Centre the first outside the United States.
Thirteen years later, in 1987, a new East Wing was add-
ed to the building, and it was renamed after Roy Graham, who served as the College Principal from 1971 to 1976.
The Library building today is the same in terms of space. It is a simple two-story structure with two wings North and East. The East Wing holds the General, Reference, and English Language Collections, as well as the Listening Center and Group Study space for students. Theology, Religion, and Psychology Collection, a favourite with our students, is in the older North Wing. This wing also contains our Special and Rare Books Collections.
The Special Archival collection holds materials relevant to the history of the College and the abundant past of the Seventy-Day Adventist Church in the United Kingdom and Europe. Some materials in the collection are
RGL Team
old documents, letters, manuscripts, paper clippings, photographs, board meeting minutes, and old bulletins.
Roy Graham Library offers its patrons numerous eBooks, journals, articles, essays, and other materials through EBSCO services. These are especially important for our distant learners. Our security system was upgraded a year ago and now looks elegant and modern. It also features a Self-Service Kiosk designed for more efficient circulation of materials.
The Library strives to implement Newbold College’s motto, “Life Changing Faith Affirming.” It supports users’ academic knowledge but also seeks to empower them spiritually. It also encourages students to interact and bond with each other and find a balance between academia and social life. That is why, on its premises, you will find the Students’ Hub, a space designated for students to relax, socialize, sing, play games, and enjoy various casual activities. As we look back to the last half-century, we are humbled and grateful for all the hard work done by our predecessors. We are also proud of countless individuals who have used the Library to fulfil their academic and spiritual dreams. Looking into the future, we are setting off on another extraordinary adventure of academic excellence, knowledge, and spiritual growth.
Olgica Milanova is the Assistant Librarian at the Roy Graham Library on the Campus of Newbold College in England.
RGL View from Salisbury Hall
RGL Self Service
RGL Building in the Spring
44th Annual ASDAL Conference Report
AssessingUserExperienceinLibraries
June24 27,2024
Hostedby theGeneralConferenceofSeventh-dayAdventists, OfficeofArchives,Statistic,andResearchinSilverSpring, Maryland.
Monday, June 24th
Worship
Lisa Beardsley-Hardy, MBA, PhD
Welcome
Ted N. C. Wilson, MSc, MDiv, PhD
General Conference of SDA
Presentation: New Horizons: Establishing the South Pacific Division Heritage Center
David Jones South Pacific Division
Presentation: Partnering Together and Reimaging the Future of Adventist Archives
Michael Campbell, PhD
General Conference of SDA
ASDAL Business Session 1 – see minutes
Presentation: AI-Powered, Open-Source, and Affordable: Updates from the Adventist Digital Library
Katharine Van Arsdale, MA, MSLS Andrews University
Presentation: Tripple-Threat: How Three Institutions Joined Forces to Preserve a Significant Black Adventist’s Legacy
Barbara Stovall, PhD Oakwood University
Rose Anjejo, MLIS Andrews University
Katharine Van Arsdale, MA, MSLS Andrews University
Presentation: Digitization Workflows
Elizabeth Henry, M.Arch, MIS
General Conference of SDA
Tuesday, June 25th
Worship
Erton Köhler, MPT
Keynote: What’s Awe Got to do With it?
Joy Fehr, MEngl, PhD
La Sierra University
ASDAL Business Session 2 – see minutes
Presentation: Transforming Libraries
RoseMercy Chebichiy, MBA
Adventist University of Africa
Presentation: Innovative Library Space
Gail Geduld, MLIS
Helderberg College of Higher Education
Presentation: Improving Library Service
Improvement Through Pleasant
Evaulation Experiences
Safary Wa-Mbaleka, PhD
General Conference of SDA
Presentation: Gamification Tools for Libraries
Bethany Howard, MSIS
Southern Adventist University
Mica Myers, MSIS (2025)
Southern Adventist University
Updates on the Encyclopedia of Seventhday Adventists
Wednesday, June 26th—Tour Day
Thursday, June 27th
Worship
Audrey Anderrson, BA
ASDAL Business Session 3 – see minutes
General Meeting Business Session Minutes
Monday, June 24, 2024 - 1st Session
1.Meeting is called to order - Neal Smith
2.Prayer - Neal Smith
3.Business Session Procedures
4.Selection of Parliamentarian
4.1. Sheila Clark was nominated, seconded, and voted in as parliamentarian.
5. Review and approval of 2023 Business Session Meetings
5.1. Approval was moved by Patrick Benner and seconded by Michelle Rojas
6. Executive and Coordinator Reports
6.1. Treasurer’s report - Neal Smith
6.1.1. (The complete report is below)
6.1.2. Approval was moved by Ashlee Chism and seconded by Michael Campbell
6.2. ASDAL Action report - Tamara Karr
6.2.1. Five regular issues are now published, with one special issue
6.2.1.1. Kathryn Van Arsdale: question about current readership
6.2.1.2. Tamara Karr: readership seems to have increased
6.2.1.3. Neal: requests stats for ASDAL Action
6.2.2. Approval was moved by Nora Mauti and seconded by Carolyn Gaskel
6.3. Publicity and Membership Coordinator Report - Adorée Makusztak
6.3.1. 96 total members - 68 regular members - 124 chapter members (67 Latin Ameri can and 57 African) - 3 student members - 1 retired member
6.3.2. Approval was moved by Heather Rodriguez-James and seconded by Eliza beth Henry
6.4. Website Coordinator Report – Gerald Rezes
6.4.1. Approval was moved by Heather Rodriguez-James and seconded by Sheila Clark
7. Discussion Items
7.1. Neal and Ashlee: encourage all to look over the Bylaws amendment before the final business meeting
7.2. Nora: ASDAL Anthem - should the house adopt the anthem to be official
7.2.1. Neal: marked as a discussion item at 2nd business meeting
8. Closing Prayer - Deyse Bravo
9. Adjournment– Neal Smith adjourned the meeting
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 - 2nd Session
1. Meeting is called to order
2. Prayer - Neal Smith
3. Business Session Procedures
4. Committee and Project Reports
4.1. Adventist Resources Section Report - Katharine (chair)
4.1.1. Open to membership with no additional fees
4.1.2. Since COVID, the committee has been working on presentations
4.1.2.1. Tours of the Archives Statics and Research
4.2. Archives and Records Management Section Report - Katharine (co-chair)
4.2.1. Bringing together programming for ASDAL
4.2.1.1 Presentations given by: Dr. Barbara Stoval (Oakwood’s Eva B Dykes Collection), Elizabeth Henry (Digitization workflow), and David Jones (New Horizons in the South Pacific)
4.3. Adventist Digital Library Report - Katharine
4.3.1. In the last year, we have officially launched the new platform for the ADL and Seventh-day Adventist Periodical Index.
4.3.1.1. Now, we have over 20,000 new works on the ADL.
4.3.1.2. Have new features such as advanced search, citation export, and full-text article and peer review tags on ASDP
4.3.2. Expanded routes with paid partnership for advanced assistance in metadata, scanning, and other services beyond the regular free services
4.4 SDAPI Advisory Committee Report - Katharine for Paulette
4.4.1. SDAPI is a subscription service
4.4.2. This is the first year to put in place the new subscription fee decided on last year by ASDAL ($5 per FTE)
4.4.3. Created a new platform for SDAPI
4.4.4. Implemented thumbnails for resources for a visual guide for full-text
4.4.5. As of 2021, the SDAPI records no longer contain LC subject headings due to the inability to employ an indexer. Basic metadata is now used.
4.4.5.1. This is a topic that will be revisited next year.
4.4.6. Approval to accept the four previous reports was moved by Michael Cam bell and seconded by Michelle Rojas.
4.5 Nominating Committee Report - Deyse (in person)
4.5.1. Bylaws recommend doubling the number of nominees for each positionthis was accomplished with much effort.
4.5.2. Approval was moved by Nora Mauti and seconded by Elizabeth Henry
4.6 Scholarship and Awards Committee Report - Adalize Cruz (report attached)
4.6.1. Scholarship awarded to Mica Myers
4.6.2. Approval was moved by Michelle Rojas and seconded by Ashlee Chis
4.7 ALICE report - Neal Smith
4.7.1. ALICE has 19 schools subscribing and will increase its database offerings if at least two schools are interested.
4.7.1.1. Ashlee wants to know how to find out what databases are available through ALICE.
4.7.1.2. Deyse questions the availability of the SDA Bible Commentary availability online.
4.7.1.2.1 Neal states that the Pacific Press has the rights to the print versions, and the Review and Herald Publishing has the rights to all other versions of the SDA Bible Commentary. Neal has spoken to the representatives of these organizations over the past two years concerning access to the Commentary in an electronic for mat for institutions, not just through Bible Logos with individual subscriptions. He has yet to receive a reply.
4.7.1.2.2. Michael wants to know why we want the old version when a new one is coming out soon.
4.7.1.2.2.1. Deyse urges that we still need the old one
4.7.1.2.3. Michael says we should start discussions im mediately for new commentary (The Andrews Commentary has two volumes). Ron Knott should be contacted.
4.7.1.2.4. Acceptance of the report was moved by Ash lee Chism and seconded by Carolyn Gaskell.
4.8. Site Planning Committee Report - Heather Rodgriguez-James delivered for Megumi Flores
4.8.1. The 2025 session will be at Andrews University
4.8.2. 2026, still searching for a host library
4.8.3. 2027 is waiting on a vote since the Latin American chapter would like to have their conference that year
4.8.3.1. 2025 Latin America is having one in Chile - Latin America will have its conference every three years (Adan)
4.8.4. Michael Cambell is interested in hosting ASDAL at the NAD in 2028
4.8.5. Ashlee Chism: Remember that everything might change if we vote to change the constitution and bylaws.
4.8.6. Acceptance of the report was moved by Deyse Bravo and seconded by Ashlee Chism
4.8.7. Motion to move the Latin American conference from 2028 to 2027 by Raul Cervantes and seconded by Michael Cambell
4.9. ASDAL Election Results - Neal Smith
4.9.1. President-elect – Sheila Clark;
4.9.2. ASDAL Action Editor – Bethany Howard (Bethany stepped down, so the posi tion goes to the runner-up – David Lwabi);
4.9.3. Adventist Resources Working Committee – Elizabeth Henry, Michelle Rojas, & David Martin;
4.9.4. Archives and Records Management Steering Committee – Sabrina Riley & Patrick Benner;
4.9.5. Nominating Committee – Heather Rodriguez-James, Mica Myers, Donna Lou Aragon & Katharine Van Arsdale;
4.9.6. Scholarship and Awards Committee – Katharine Van Arsdale;
4.9.7. SDA Classification Advisory Board – Stan Cottrell & Chelsi Cannon;
4.9.8. SDAPI Advisory Committee – Julie-Ann Bocock-Bliss;
4.9.9 Sight Planning Committee – Naicy Guardias-Sanidad;
4.9.10 Statistics Committee – Jessica Spears.
5. Discussion Items
5.1. Musical anthem for ASDAL that was presented at the last ASDAL conference in Africa
5.1.1 Acceptance of the anthem as the official anthem for ASDAL was moved by Katharine Van Arsdale and seconded by Heather James.
5.1.1.1. Someone suggested that the word “hail” in the song may be offensive to some cultures.
5.1.1.2. Michelle Rojas suggests replacing the word “hail” with “God bless.”
5.1.1.3. Deyse and Jorge bring up that an anthem had already been presented in 2002
5.1.1.4. Someone suggests that each chapter have its own anthem
5.1.1.5. Katharine withdrew her motion so more research could be done.
6. Closing Prayer - Julie-Ann Bocock-Bliss
7. Adjournment
Thursday, June 27, 2024 - 3rd Session
1. Meeting is called to order - Neal Smith
2. Prayer - David Jones
3. Business Session Procedures
4. Chapter Reports
4.1. Latin American Chapter Report - Adan Guzman
4.1.1. There are 68 members
4.1.2. Set up a “Prayer Room” on the library website where people can submit prayer requests.
4.1.3. Had the first in-person meeting in Columbia in 2023 - 28 members attended
4.1.4. Planning the next meeting in 2025 at the Adventist University of Chile
4.1.5. Plan to have future meetings every two years
4.16. They have adopted an anthem for the Latin American chapter.
4.1.7. Acceptance of report moved by Heather Rodriguez-James and seconded by Michael Cambell
4.2. African Chapter Report - Nora Mauti
4.2.1. Dr. Evan Sartuza is the president of the chapter and sends this report
4.2.2. There are 68 members from 11 African countries
4.2.3. There is an issue with receiving funds
4.2.4. There is a three-year project making digital resources available to members.
4.2.5. Considering having a conference once per year
4.2.6. We were blessed by hosting the conference in 2023 at AUA
4.2.7. They are pleased with the anthem presented at ASDAL 2023 and will adopt it in their chapter, if not on the international level.
4.2.8. They are having difficulty growing the number of SDA librarians within 54 African countries, with only membership in 11 countries.
4.2.9. Acceptance of report moved by Ashlee Chism and seconded by Heather Rodriguez-James
4.3
European
Chapter Report - Raul Cervantes
4.3.1. The 4th annual conference of the European Chapter took place in Friedensau, Germany, in 2024, with the theme “Strengthening Adventist Libraries in Europe.”
4.3.1.1. Include the intra-European Division and Inter-European Division.
4.3.1.2. The participants represented seven institutions
4.3.1.3. There were a lot of opportunities to interact on a personal level.
4.3.1.4. Made a meaningful commitment to work together among institutions
4.3.1.5. Cycle of conferences: Once a year to gather in person and online for a week or less AND 3 online gatherings per year for a day or less
4.3.1.6. The upcoming conferences in person will be in Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria (in that order)
4.3.2. Acceptance of report moved by Heather Rodriguez-James and seconded by Michelle Rojas
5. Discussion Items
5.1 Constitution and Bylaws Proposed Amendments - Ashlee Chism and Neal Smith
5.1.1 Tasked with the conference last year to have the committee review the pro- cess of restructuring the organization of ASDAL, making the process available for discussion ahead of a vote.
5.1.1.1. Having the current executive ASDAL becoming the Internation ASDAL and encouraging the creation of a new North American chapter
5.1.1.2. How to deal with people who want to be a member of ASDAL who may be without a chapter
5.1.1.2.1 May join ASDAL International
5.1.1.3. Question on how to deal with dues
5.1.1.3.1 Dues would be flexible based on the needs and abilities of the different chapters.
5.1.1.4. Questions about conferences and how they would happen
5.1.1.4.1 Suggesting a conference every 3 to 5 years
5.1.1.5. The plan is to create a flexible framework that does not lock ASDAL into specific actions, such as set dues.
5.1.1.6. Restructuring of the ASDAL Committee
5.1.1.6.1 Add the chapter presidents to the ASDAL International Executive Committee
5.1.1.6.1.1 You cannot be a chapter president and ASDAL International president at the same time
5.1.1.6.2. The president would serve from conference to conference
5.1.1.6.3. Instead of a president-elect, there would be an International vice president who will plan the international conference
5.1.2. A recommendation was made to reword the bylaws for chapters so that it is clear that they are expected to have regular conferences, but they can determine what intervals.
5.1.3. There was a question concerning the length of time between international conferences.
5.1.3.1. Recommendation made to have the international conference every four years
5.1.4. Motion to accept the document by Elizabeth Henry with the suggested changes and seconded by Don Martin
5.1.4.1. Discussion will take place on an online forum
6. Closing Prayer - Ashlee Chism
7. Adjournment - Neal Smith
Attachments
Treasurer’s Report 2023-2024 (Dates are June 1, 2023-May 31, 2024)
General Finances
Expenses exceeded income again for the 2023-2024 year. The negative cashflow was due entirely to the conference, which was not able to meet its budget due to lower-than-expected attendance. ASDAL collects income from two sources: membership dues and conference fees. Membership fees through new and renewing members where high for 2023-2024, and the income generated was sufficient to cover nonconference expenses (see the Annual Financial Statement). For the near-term (at least 5 years), we have reserves enough to continue funding conference shortfalls similar to this year’s. But we will need to explore long-term solutions to fund conferences if the current trend continues. The total ASDAL funds at the close of the fiscal year are listed below, along with comparison to the previous fiscal year.
Total Available ASDAL General Funds
2023-2024
Year
-2023 Fiscal Year
As of 5/31/2024 As of 5/31/2023 06/01/2022 to 05/31/2023
2023 Annual Conference
The 2023 ASDAL conference was held at Adventist University of Africa (AUA) in Nairobi, Kenya, June 26-29. The conference had 14 registered attendees. AUA managed collection of funds and payment of expenses; individual credits and debits were recorded in Kenyan Shillings. Only totals in US dollars (including room and board) are reported here.
D. Glenn Hilts Scholarship Fund
The scholarship fund has had steady growth over the last year. In 2023, ASDAL awarded two scholarships for $3,000. The fund grew $5,654.14 between March 31, 2023, and March 31, 2024, resulting in an overall increase of $2,654.14. $1,850 is available to grant, covering the scholarship award of $1,500 for 2024.
D. Glenn Hilts Scholarship*
Current Period Prior Period Increase/
Statement Ending Mar. 31, 2024
Statement Ending Mar. 31, 2023
Apr. 1, 2022 –Mar. 31, 2023
*The figures reported are based on the available statements and do not reflect the entire 2023-2024 fiscal year.
ASSOCIATION OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST LIBRARIANS ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT
June 1, 2023 – May 31, 2024
INCOME (Jun 1, 2022 – May 31, 2023):
Membership Fees Lincoln SDA Credit Union Savings Dividends and Interest Government Document Fee Refund 2024 Conference Sponsorship
TOTAL: $1,940.00 $72.52 $275.00 $50.00 $2,337.52
EXPENSES (Jun 1, 2022 – May 31, 2023):
Webhos ng and So ware Payment Processing Fees Government Document Fees 2023 Conference Expenses
TOTAL: ($1,770.99) ($199.58) ($1.35) ($1191.94) ($3,098.86)
Balance as of May 31, 2024 $23,498.24
Respectfully submitted to the ASDAL membership June 25, 2024.
Neal Smith ASDAL Treasurer
JUDITH THOMAS LIBRARY’S MAKTABA (LIBRARY) TIME
By Norah Mauti
Introduction
The aim of Judith Thomas Library's Maktaba Time, is to enhance awareness of its resources and services while equipping library users with essential information literacy skills. This annual event provides a platform for the library to engage with its stakeholders, showcase its offerings, and foster a conducive environment for learning and growth.
Training and Workshop
The Judith Thomas Library celebrated its second vibrant "Maktaba Time" (Library Time)from September 24 to 26, 2024. "Maktaba" is a Kiswahili term meaning "library." The primary aim of this event was to raise awareness of the resources and services available at Judith Thomas Library while simultaneously equipping library users with essential information literacy skills.
Throughout the three-day event, the AUA community benefited from comprehensive literacy
skills training sessions led by a dedicated team from the library and the Ellen G. White Estate Branch Office (EGWEBO). The training included one-onone instruction in thefollowing areas:
· Information literacy skills: Effective searching, evaluation, and use of information resources.
· AI tools for proofreading: Leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance writing accuracy and clarity.
· Accessing electronic resources: Navigating databases, e-books, and other digital materials.
· MyLOFT platform: Using the library's online platform to access electronic resources.OPAC: Searching for physical materials in the library's catalog
· Turnitin similarity checker: Identifying plagiarism and ensuring academic integrity.
· Citation management software: Organizing and citing references using tools like Zotero Ellen G. White resources: Accessing the
works of the Adventist pioneer.
· Book sales and donations: Purchasing and contributing to the library's collection.
Interactive Activities and Engagement
To complement the training sessions, Maktaba Time included a variety of engaging activities designed to foster social interaction and stimulate creativity. Participants enjoyed interactive games like Scrabble, Jenga, Rubik's Cube, Sudoku, colouring, modelling, and jigsaw puzzles. Refreshments were served to show appreciation for attendees' participation.
Conclusion
Maktaba Time was a resounding success, attracting a large number of attendees and providing valuable training to 41 library users. The event showcased the library's resources and services, empowered users with information literacy skills, and fostered a stronger connection between the library and the Adventist University of Africa community. Maktaba Time contributed to a more informed and engaged University body. These initiatives contribute to a greater recognition of the library’s pivotal role, as well asthat of librarians, in facilitating research and learning at institutions of higher education like the Adventist University of Africa.
Norah O. Mauti is the Associate Librarian and the Adventist University of Africa in Kenya.
rare opportunity for all student workers to unite in one place. This year, the planning team aimed to elevate the experience by designing a more hands-on and interactive learning environment. With a focus on engagement, the session allowed student workers to participate actively, enhancing their skills and building connections that will support them throughout the year.
Previous Years
In years past, the library training session took place on the morning of the first Sunday of the semester, marking a significant kickoff for students entering the academic year. This session was designed to equip students with essential information vital to their work experience at the library.
During the opening portion of training, the librarians lead presentations covering various important topics. Key areas included customer service, where students learned how to interact with library staff and navigate resources effectively; safety protocols, which highlighted the measures to ensure a secure study
While these presentations covered essential information, they could have been more engaging, with student workers passively sitting while listening to presentations from the library team.
Crafting the Idea
During initial discussions for planning this year's event, we knew we wanted to take the session from a presentation style to an interactive event. A handson approach would ensure that each student worker demonstrated key skills and was personally engaged with the information. After brainstorming what this might look like, the idea of Camp McKee Library was born. The idea was formed to have our Student Evening Supervisors serve as camp counselors, leading groups of student workers through different stations set up in the library to focus on critical aspects of library
employment. Before the training event, we crafted and sent out an assessment quiz to gauge the areas that required the most focus and practice, and it helped us develop the program by deciding which training stations should be included.
Descriptions of Stations
Each station in the program was led by one or more of our librarians, who were briefed on the specifics of their designated station before the training event. Using AI, we developed a schedule given to each group leader that listed which stations they would go to in what order without interfering with the other groups. Along with the station schedule, each group leader received a clipboard that included a sheet listing all the participants in their group and a place to write notes on their performance at each station for the Circulation Manager to review later for further training if needed. Once everyone was broken up into their groups and found their “camp counselor,” the training began. There were seven stations involved in Camp McKee Library.
Station 1: Self Check-Out
● Self-check-out via RFID was a new installment to McKee Library over the summer, and most of our student workers had never used it. Our Technical Services Librarian operated this station since he had the most knowledge about the system. He walked each group of students through the process before having each group member check out a book themselves. A cart of books was provided for this station.
Station 2: Printing, Scanning, & Copying
● Printing, scanning, and copying are all services used daily at the library and require competent performance to assist other students and patrons of the library. This station was manned by each group's “camp counselor” and included instructions on all printing, scanning, and copying functions before each student practiced those functions for themselves. Each group member needed to: 1. Send a wireless print job to the wireless printing station, specifically in color; 2. Scan a document as a PDF to their email and show the group leader for approval, and 3. Make a copy of a document. A pre-paid printer charge card and materials to practice copying were provided to this station.
Station 3: Storage Familiarity
● McKee Library has multiple storage rooms on the basement level, each of which is infrequently visited by our student workers, leading to a lack of understanding of where each one is and what each one stores. Our Public Services and Digital Resources Librarian manned this station to familiarize each group with the materials' locations in each storage room. This station was provided with a bin of randomly selected
call numbers that each group member picked from. Once selected, the group members found the material correlated with the call number they received. Once the librarians confirmed the item with the call number, everyone in the group swapped materials and replaced them in the storage room.
Station 4: General Collection Familiarity
● This station not only provided familiarity with our General Collection located on the second floor of McKee Library but also provided a deeper understanding of how to use the library’s website to find books in the catalog; this station was manned by our Library Director and consisted of every group member receiving a randomly selected, specific scenario with which they had to use the library website to access the catalog and find a book that matched the specification of the scenario they were given. Once the librarian confirmed that the item matched the scenario, everyone in the group swapped materials and replaced them in the General Collection.
Station 5: Jeopardy
● This station was set up in the Instruction Lab located on the basement level of McKee Library. A Jeopardy-style game was created before the event and was executed by our Research Services Librarian. The material covered in the game was based on areas that received low scores on the assessment quiz mentioned earlier and infrequently covered library topics.
Station 6: Website Management
● This station was created to familiarize student workers with the library’s website to serve patrons better. It was conducted in the Center for the Study of 19th Century America on the 3rd floor and was manned by our Periodicals and Reference Librarian. Laptops were provided, but student workers could use their cell phones if preferred. The group was given a location on the website to find, and whoever found it first was given candy.
Station 7: RFID Procedures & Phone Etiquette
● With the installment of the RFID system over the summer, student workers still needed to be well-trained on the system at the time of the training event. This station was conducted at the main circulation desk and was manned by the Circulation Manager. The process of checking out and returning library material was explained, and then each group member went through the process themselves. After every student worker in the group had completed that task, they were given an
explanation of how the phone system works and how to put a patron on hold and transfer a phone call. The Circulation Manager called the desk phone, and each group member took turns answering it and transferring it to a desk phone on the other side of the room. This station had a cart of books to check in and out.
Outcomes
The outcome of this style of training was highly positive. Feedback was received that student workers not only enjoyed the event and had fun while attending but also learned something new or felt more competent than they had prior. With the addition of hands-on learning, the material was practiced and is now more likely to be recalled when needed. The factor that made the event most successful was the leadership of the student evening supervisors. Ironically, most had summer camp experience and leaned into the theme, acting like true camp counselors and leading their groups with joy and cheer. After the training, when the clipboards were returned, the Circulation Manager could use any notes the group leader took to provide additional training and support to student workers who seemed to struggle in certain areas.
Conclusion
Camp McKee Library provided practical information and fostered a sense of community among students, helping them feel more comfortable and informed working at the library. Overall, the training aimed to empower students with the tools to maximize the library's resources and assist library patrons throughout the semester.
About the Authors
Leeah Christ is McKee Library’s circulation manager and oversees training for 35-plus student workers. Jessica Spears is the library’s Research Services librarian and works closely with the Circulation Department, often assisting when questions arise or lending an extra hand when there are needs at the desk.
Leeah Christ is the Circulation Manager at McKee Library at Southern Adventist University.
Jessica Spears is the Research Services Librarian at McKee Library at Southern Adventist University.
NEWS FROM RAFAEL ESCANDON HERNANDEZ LIBRARY
By Melquisedec Merchan Martinez
The Rafael Escandon Hernandez library of the Adventist University Corporation of Colombia wants to mention some events that have happened in recent days. In recent days, the institution has received several visits from the national government to evaluate some academic programs. Some to renew registration and others as new programs to offer to the community in general. The library staff wants to thank God, because in the government visits, God has given his grace so that the support and presentation of the library director before the evaluators, everything has gone very well. It has been evident that God has been abundantly blessing the university and the library. It is a reason for gratitude to God for his help to our institution.
The Library Staff
Corporation of Colombia
The Rafael Escandon Hernandez is the Library Director for the Rafael Escandon Hernandez library of the Adventist University
MCKEE LIBRARY USES RFID TECHNOLOGY
By Deyse Bravo
McKee Library, on the campus of Southern Adventist University, started its new academic year with new sets of RFID (radio frequency identification) security gates and two self-checkout stations.
To fulfill the library’s strategic priority of implementing media and technology innovation in order to increase the effectiveness of library services, the library requested capital funds to cover the cost of upgrading the general library collection with RFID capabilities and the addition of self-checkout stations. RFID technology improves the speed and accuracy of circulation and shelving functions, protects the library’s collection, and allows for a selfcheckout option at the library.
The library presented university administrators with the following advantages of adopting RFID technology:
· RFID technology allows several items to be processed simultaneously, versus a barcode system that requires individual scanning, sometimes requiring multiple scans before being read.
· RFID tags last much longer than barcodes, with most RFID vendors claiming a minimum of 100,000 transactions before a tag needs to be replaced. Barcodes suffer from wear and tear and eventually become unreadable much more quickly.
· RFID readers are highly reliable and useful for tracking materials. Were a library user to leave the library without properly checking out an item, the library would know what was taken.
· RFID technology allows for high-speed
inventorying and identifying items that are out of order.
· RFID technology allows McKee Library to offer safe self-checkout stations where students and other patrons can check out multiple materials at one time and not have to wait in line to be assisted by a circulation worker.
· By giving patrons the option of utilizing selfcheckout equipment, circulation workers will not need to constantly focus on the lending and returns processes, freeing up time for other responsibilities.
· RFID technology and self-checkout stations are becoming the norm in academic libraries, and we strive to remain current in all our services.
Once the funds were approved, we were able to
purchase everything necessary to perform the RFID conversion on our materials and offer self-checkout. The following items were included in the quote from Envisionware, our chosen vendor:
· Book tags
· Two sets of security gates
· Service desk stations
· RFID software
· Installation costs
· Two self-checkout stations
Throughout the year, student library assistants worked on the RFID conversion, and the process was continued in the summer by library faculty and staff. The general collection conversion was completed just in time to install the new gates and self-checkout stations at the end of July 2024. The stations have already proven to be popular and in constant use, and the sleek gates match the modern look of the library’s new entrance. The RFID conversion process for library materials housed in storage will be completed by the end of this academic year.
Deyse Bravo is the Director of Libraries at Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tennessee.
WALLA WALLA JOB OPENINGS
By Carolyn Gaskell
Walla Walla University is Seeking a Director of Libraries
· Full-time faculty position with rank and tenure
· Available January 1, 2025
· Position requirements and description: www.wallawalla.edu/fileadmin/user_upload/ Academic_Administration/Job_Postings/2024 -17_Library_director_position.pdf
· Qualified SDA Applicants from North America please apply
Part-time/Hour
Walla University’s Peterson Memorial Library: Acquisition Specialist
· Part-Time, 26 hours per week
· Position requirements and description: www.wallawalla.edu/fileadmin/user_upload/ Human_Resources/
Job_Announcements_PDF_s_STAFF/ADD_ _Acquisition_Specialist.pdf
· Qualified SDA applicants from North America, please apply.
Resource Sharing Specialist
· Part-Time, 20 hours per week
· Position requirements and description: https:// www.wallawalla.edu/fileadmin/user_upload/ Human_Resources/ Job_Announcements_PDF_s_STAFF/ AD_Resource_Sharing_Specialist_.pdf
· Qualified SDA applicants from North America, please apply.
Carolyn Gaskell, M.A. is the Director of Libraries at Walla Walla University in College Place, Washington.
2025 ASDAL CONFERENCE CALL FOR PAPERS
The 2025 Association of Seventh-day Adventist Librarians (ASDAL) international conference will be held from Friday evening, June 27 through Wednesday noon, July 2 on the beautiful campus of Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. The change from the usual practice of a Monday through Thursday conference is to accommodate the General Conference Session which begins July 3 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Open Futures, Open Choices is our conference theme. As textbooks, publishing, and primary sources become more open, so are our choices and challenges in how we innovate library services with them. Additionally, while faculty and students have been using artificial intelligence applications such as Grammarly for over a decade, generative artificial intelligence, such as ChatGPT, has rocked higher education in ways that other, older applications have not. How do we thoughtfully use and teach generative AI while recognizing its limitations?
We invite authors to submit proposals for papers, posters, workshops, and traditional and lightinground panels related to the conference theme including but not limited to – the topics:
· Open textbooks
· Creative commons
· Artificial intelligence
· Open publishing
· Resisting misinformation
· Open primary sources
Submission Guidelines: Submissions should consist of the presenters’ names and institutional affiliations, a presentation title, the format of the presentation, and an abstract of 200-250 words describing the presentation topic. Please submit proposals to Sheila Clark, ASDAL President-Elect, at sclark@burmanu.ca
Submission due date: March 3, 2025