Library Presentations, Posters, and Audiovisual Materials
Staying Cool: The Contemporary Religious Studies Librarian and the Power of Storytelling
Document Type
Speech
Publication Date
10-22-2024
Abstract
Contrary to what many may think, there is immense potential in the space of religious studies librarianship, especially as spirituality and religion are increasingly being explored in non-traditional and interdisciplinary ways. Essraa Nawar, Assistant Dean for Library DEI Initiatives and Development at Chapman University, will take participants on a dynamic journey from her early work at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt to the groundbreaking initiatives she has led at Chapman University. This webinar will redefine what it means to be a contemporary religious studies librarian—it’s not just about managing collections and databases; it’s about staying cool, fostering meaningful connections, and leading innovative conversations that resonate across diverse faith communities and academic disciplines. In an era where libraries are trendsetting hubs of cultural and scholarly engagement, Nawar will illustrate how religious studies librarianship can be disruptive and transformative. She will showcase fresh, relevant, and innovative approaches to knowledge creation and community-building through a blend of case studies, success stories, and personal experiences. Participants will learn how to position their libraries as key players in shaping the conversations institutions need to have, leveraging religious studies collections and databases to drive interfaith dialogue and enrich the understanding of spirituality in our modern world.
Recommended Citation
Nawar, E. (2024, Oct. 22). Staying cool: The contemporary religious studies librarian and the power of storytelling [Webinar]. Atla. https://www.atla.com/webinar/staying-cool-the-contemporary-religious-studies-librarian-and-the-power-of-storytelling/