news-category: Dover Library Gardner-Webb’s Dover Library Receives $3,000 Grant from American Library Association By Office of University Communications On April 21, 2021 Funds will Begin Digitizing the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Association Records BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s John R. Dover Memorial Library recently received a $3,000 grant from the American Library Association (ALA) through its program, “Libraries Transforming Communities: Focus on Small & Rural Libraries.” Grants were presented to 517 libraries in 48 states. On the list of seven North Carolina recipients, Gardner-Webb is the only university library. Library Dean Dr. Pam Dennis said the grant will be used to begin digitizing the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Association records. The Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Association was originally founded in Cleveland County, N.C., in 1889, with roots extending back to Shiloh Baptist Church in 1867, to support the growth and formation of African American churches and schools in the Foothills of North and South Carolina. “Exactly half of those African-American churches are pastored by current or former students from our divinity programs,” Dennis noted. “We will be working with the individual churches mostly in Cleveland and Rutherford counties to help them celebrate 100-year anniversaries.” The ALA distributed nearly $1 million in funding for small and rural libraries through its grant program. The funding will enable libraries to lead community engagement efforts in small and rural communities on topics like the COVID pandemic, mental health, public land use, the climate crisis and Black history. Grant funds may be used to cover a range of expenses, including staff time and collections and technology purchases. “Through community engagement, libraries are continuing their important work on literacy and access, while also working to fill gaps in other areas that may not have fallen to libraries in the past,” said ALA President Julius C. Jefferson. “We are excited to provide the resources for hundreds of libraries to take on new challenges in their communities and look forward to seeing the great things they accomplish.” Besides the ALA grant, each library will receive online staff training in how to lead conversations, a skill vital to 21st-century librarianship. Since 2014, ALA’s Libraries Transforming Communities initiative has re-imagined the role libraries play in supporting communities. Libraries of all types have utilized free dialogue and deliberation training and resources to lead community and campus forums; take part in anti-violence activities; provide a space for residents to come together and discuss challenging topics; and have productive conversations with civic leaders, library trustees and staff. The initiative is part of ALA’s longtime commitment to preparing library workers for the expanding role of libraries. Additionally, Dennis said, the library is waiting to hear from several other grant applications and has received a separate $1,500 COVID relief grant that includes digital signage. Visit the John R. Dover Library Website. About the American Library Association The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org. About Gardner-Webb Located in the North Carolina foothills, Gardner-Webb University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. Gardner-Webb emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.
News Article Gardner-Webb Community Remembers Professor Emeritus Dr. Phil Perrin: Musician, Mountain Climber and Missionary Perrin, who Taught at GWU for 34 Years, Passed Away on May 14, 2025 BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb Professor Emeritus of Music Dr. Phil Perrin, who shared his love for God and music with many students during his 34 years at the University, passed away on May 14, 2025. He also found ways to combine his […] Office of University Communications | May 16, 2025
News Article Gardner-Webb Assistant Provost Dr. Greg Pillar Selected to Participate in National Conference Inaugural HigherEd PodCon Showcases Over 40 Presenters from North America BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University Assistant Provost Dr. Greg Pillar has been selected to participate in the inaugural HigherEd PodCon set for July 12 at the University of Illinois in Chicago. Pillar is one of over 40 presenters and will be featured in a session on […] Office of University Communications | May 14, 2025
News Article Gardner-Webb Alumnus and Retired Navy Commander John E. Sutton is Speaker for University’s Memorial Day Observance Ceremony will be Held on May 23 at 11 a.m. in Dover Chapel BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb will host its Memorial Day Observance on Friday, May 23, at 11 a.m. in Dover Chapel, and the public is welcome to attend. Each year, the University sets aside this time to remember the lives of those who have […] Office of University Communications | May 13, 2025