After recently participating in Moravian’s third annual Heritage Day, a time of service to the community, I am reminded of the value of volunteering as a way to give back and the many forms it can take. Along with other members of the seminary community, I compiled origami kits for hospitalized children in the region and created cards to go with these packets. The aim of Heritage Day is to convey the message that others care and that we are all on the journey of life together. SEPTLA members share a similar mentality.
I must admit, however, that it was tempting not to participate in Heritage Day this year, especially with a busier than usual September. Lots of us, myself included, wear many hats and may sometimes feel like we are in the circus walking the balance beam, juggling multiple responsibilities, and trying not to fall. Fortunately, we are not alone; we can lean on our SEPTLA colleagues.
SEPTLA members serve as resources for one another, sharing their expertise in particular areas. Moreover, SEPTLA meetings provide the perfect opportunity for learning about best practices and brainstorming how we can “be better together.” At the fall meeting scheduled for November 8 at Missio Seminary (formerly Biblical Theological Seminary), the Resource Sharing Task Force will continue the conversation that we started at the spring meeting—how can we leverage our solidarity to get the best “bang for our buck” and move our libraries and institutions forward.
During the business meeting, we will discuss the important roles of those serving in leadership positions within SEPTLA and how the bylaws and the proposed addition of an administrative assistant can more accurately reflect these responsibilities and better serve the membership. Serving together we can accomplish more.
In closing, consider the value of SEPTLA and how you might be able to contribute to the future of this organization in big and small ways. There are a variety of ways to get involved. Currently, the following positions are open:
- Chair of the Continuing Education Committee
- Member at large of the Continuing Education Committee
- Newsletter Editor
- Chair of the Research Services Interest Group
If you are willing to serve, but are concerned about the time commitment, please let me know. Perhaps co-chairing is a solution. How will you “pay it forward?”
Elizabeth Young Miller
SEPTLA President, 2018-2019