Eleanor Wees Memorial Library
Will books disappear from the scene some day? And will literature be read only on computers? We don’t think so. There is something very satisfying about the feel of a book in your hand, the firmness of it, the neatness of the printed page, the illustrations, if any. Libraries may become more like computer stations, but we think there will always be books there. Our Church Library is a vital part of First Baptist – not simply because it is a place to find books, archives and other media, but because it is a place for fellowship and the vital social contact that strengthens any church.
Come visit our Church Library! It is a mine of information for those who would seek it. Are you a Bible reader who likes things explained or located? There are a lot of answers there. Are you interested in the history of the Christian Church in general, or Baptists in particular, or other religions? There is much to be read there. Perhaps you find it easier to watch videos than to read books. The Library has quite a collection of them, many of which bring the Bible to life, or take you on a trip to the Holy Land. There is also quite a variety for children.
When you feel the urge to read, see videos or need some information, remember our Church Library. We are waiting to help you.
Our Library is open on Sunday mornings after the worship service. Why not drop in to browse through our offerings? Books, DVDs, church archives and other Christian resources are all available. Our Church Librarians, Joanna, Marta and Benia are always glad to guide you in your search. Why not pay them a visit? You will definitely be pleased that you did!
LIBRARY DEDICATION
Eleanor Wees was a pioneer at First Baptist Church Ottawa, establishing the Contact newsletter and being instrumental in founding the church library – and then becoming its first librarian.
Therefore, it was with great joy that the congregation dedicated and named the library in Eleanor’s memory on Sunday, April 16, 2023. Eleanor’s son, Eric, and Lynn B., who worked with Eleanor to establish the library, unveiled a plaque with the library’s new name.
Eleanor was the church librarian from 1990 until 2004, but she continued as assistant librarian until late 2019. She passed away on July 30, 2021, having been predeceased by her husband Ian in 2019.
Eric Wees and Lynn B. unveil a plaque with the new name of First Baptist Church’s library, which was dedicated in memory of Eric’s mother, Eleanor. (Joanna Calder photo, (c) First Baptist Church)
Eleanor reads scripture in a video recording made during the COVID-19 lockdown, for the May 9, 2021, service. (FBC video screen capture)