The Siena Center Community Library supports the development of all members of the community in both their personal and their ministerial lives through the provision of print and other information resources.
The Library is open after all weekend Masses (except the 5:30PM Sunday Evening). To use of the library from Monday through Thursday 9:00AM-8:00PM, please come to the RE office and ask for the door to be open for you.
The principal focus of its collections - currently over 1000 volumes - is on adult level print materials relating to scripture, theology, liturgy, spiritual life and prayer, church history and biography and resources to deal with a broad range or personal and family issues and to assist in the formation and training in various ministries. The Library also provides a significant selection of religiously-oriented books for children and a modest collection of video and audio tape resources. A Reference section includes a range of dictionaries, encyclopedias and similar materials. For up to date information, its resources include Origins, the documentation service of the Catholic News Service and a number of Catholic newspapers and magazines. Display shelves for the most recent issues is on the right as you enter the library.
Library Books & Resources
Click here for a listing of books and resources available in the library. Adobe Acrobat is required to view the list.
Library Hours
- After Weekend Masses (except 5:30pm Sun)
- Mon-Thurs: 9AM-8PM
Access to Materials
- Catalog: The best way to begin is through the card catalog which lists all materials by author, title and subject. Each card lists a call number consisting of an abbreviation for the subject under which the item is shelved and most also have the first three letters of the author's name.
- Shelves: All materials are shelved by broad subject categories, such as Bereavement, Bible, Ministry, Prayer, Self-Help, Spirituality and Theology - there are others, listed in the library brochure available at the Welcome desk and in the Library. Note: items are sometimes mis-shelved, so be sure to look through the entire subject grouping.
Use of Materials
All books except those designated Reference can be checked out for two weeks, and can then be renewed.
Selective Reading Lists
- New Book Corner
- The Second Vatican Council
- Catholic Social Thought
- The Bible
- The Catholic Church
- Mary
- Prayer
Periodical List
The library receives a number of magazines that are available for reading in the library. These do not circulate for outside use, but photocopies of articles can be made on request. Also, many have websites that you can visit:
- Forum
- GIA Quarterly
- Houston Catholic Worker
- Liturgical Ministry
- Maryknoll
- Ministry and Liturgy
- National Catholic Reporter
The Library Ministry
The Library operates with the volunteer assistance of a number of individuals who staff the Library after Masses and assist in processing and other clerical tasks. More help is also useful for this important effort.
Library volunteers are needed for all Masses. Total time commitment is between 15-20 minutes after Mass. Volunteers have two main functions; they put away books and help parishioners find and then check out books. Training is provided.