What is a finding aid? It's basically a database. Older folks might know a finding aid as a card catalog. Younger folks or tech-savvy adults will be familiar with an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog). OPACs are computer-based catalogs, such as Allegheny County Library Association's eiNetwork. I am proud to announce that, unless God doesn't will it, we will at minimum have an OPAC. People will be able to search the Library collection through an OPAC on the Library website.
The Librarian is also working on an improved, possibly electronic circulation system. Our card-based system is outdated and inefficient. The Librarian will do everything possible to ensure that this possibility becomes a reality, God willing. An electronic circulation system will not only provide efficiency, but will allow the St. George Library to be an even greater resource to our parish.
In developing our collection, we have tentatively identified a few areas that we wish to focus on. They are (in no particular order):
- Orthodox Children's Books
- Orthodox "Self-Help" or Psychology Books
- Foreign Language Bibles
- Multiple Copies of "Classics" (such as The Orthodox Way)
Of course, we welcome any Orthodox donations. Please keep in mind that we are developing an Orthodox parish library; this affects what we are willing to take for our collection. As a reminder, we reserve the right to reject or pass along donations. It is also a priority to pass unwanted books along to FOCUS Pittsburgh to help them build their own Orthodox Library.