ABTAPL
Association of British Theological and Philosophical Libraries
Sharing Information and Experience, Advice and Support
ABTAPL is the Association of British Theological and Philosophical Libraries, an organisation formed to help those working in libraries containing theological, philosophical and related materials by sharing information and experience.
ABTAPL provides for its members an informal network for consultation, advice and support for both individuals and institutions.
Do you have a story to tell about theological and religious libraries?
Since 1956, the Association of British Theological and Philosophical Libraries (ABTAPL) has been supporting members to share information and advice for theological, religious and philosophical libraries, and contributing to professional advocacy in this sector. In 2026 ABTAPL celebrates its 70th anniversary, and is planning to mark the occasion with a publication, in partnership with Books@Atla Open Press.
ABTAPL is now inviting proposals for chapters on the work of ABTAPL, and more broadly on theological, religious and philosophical libraries in the UK. Chapters may explore the development of libraries in this sector since 1956, the current situation of libraries and librarianship in this field and the challenges and trends that the sector faces in the future. We are actively seeking contributions from libraries and librarians of all religious faiths (and none), and from all areas of the UK. Proposals will be preferred that support a broader overview, narrative or survey rather than, for instance, the specific detail of a single individual library collection.
Please read the call for chapters. Chapter proposals must include a 200-word abstract describing the topic and a working title for the chapter. Proposals are due 15 July 2024 and should be submitted to . Anticipated publication date is early 2026.