University Library Developing and Reaching Out

June 11, 2004. The Library has been the recipient of many books from individual friends of the University and various international organizations. Because of such donations thousands of books are being added- books the Library would not be able to otherwise acquire.

 

Mr. Afif Safieh, Permanent Delegate to the U.K. and the Holy See, and Member of Bethlehem University's Board of Regents, donated a collection of books. Mr. Yasuhiko Sata, Member of the Board of Regents, made a donation as well, and so did Mr. Don Castello who visited last Fall to help set up the new Computer major.

The French Consulate; Orbis Books, USA; and the library of Professor Edward De Moore, of Nimejin, Holland; also contributed to the Library collection many valuable texts and resources on the Middle East.

The Public Affairs Office of the US Consulate, Jerusalem, provided an enhanced on-line subscription service to many journals. A grant from the European Union provided the Library with 16 new computers and a printer. With these resources students have easy access to the on-line catalog and subscriptions, internet, and many other valuable research tools. Faculty and staff are also finding the new technological developments of great value to their teaching and research.

The Turathuna Center, funded by Development Cooperation, Ireland, has grown and more display panels were added with different themes: Palestinian People, Palestinian Food, and the Olive Tree. Elizabeth and Richard Moley, continuing in their tradition of generosity and kindness to Bethlehem University, donated artifacts for the Turathuna display cases. Maha Saca made a significant contribution of artifacts as well for the display cases.

In terms of outreach to the community, the Library continues to welcome alumni who are coming in significant numbers. Many of them are pursuing their higher education and are able to do significant research using the Bethlehem University library resources. Groups from local schools in the area are also visiting the Bethlehem University Library, especially the Palestinian Heritage Center: Turathuna.