The Swanton Library

The Swanton Library is named after Rev Dr Robert Swanton who, after the reorganisation of the Theological Hall in 1975, was appointed Acting Principal until 1977 and Principal 1978-81. Coming out of retirement, Dr Swanton led the College for its first seven years. On his death in 1992 he left a generous legacy to the College to help fund the library and the work of the Reformed Theological Review which he helped to initiate. His portrait hangs just inside the main door of the library.

Since 1975 the formation of a well-equipped library has been a primary goal. From small beginnings in that year the library is rapidly growing towards a collection of over 20,000 items. Additional books are constantly coming in through gift or purchase. Gifts in the form of monetary donations are tax deductible (cheques should be made out to the Presbyterian Theological College Library Fund) and the donation of theological books is always welcome.

Books are catalogued using the Pettee classification scheme of the Union Seminary, New York. The Library subscribes to over 120 periodicals, which are shelved separately from the books and are only for use in the Library. The reference section is also not for loan. There is an extensive collection of audio tapes, videos and CDs.

In 1996 the library was extended and now adequately fulfils the requirements of a busy College. Computerisation of the library is complete using the Bookmark system, and internet access is now available along with the ATLA (a worldwide database of all publications in religion and ethics). A number of CDRoms have been installed such as; Religious Index, Master Christian Library, Spurgeon Library, Anchor Bible, Westminster Theological Journal. These, along with the other reseach tools, provide a valuable study-centre for staff and students.

Students have right of access (though not borrowing-rights) to all the theological libraries in Melbourne.

Inter-library loans can be arranged on request for material not in the library’s serial collection if listed in the ‘Australian Union List of Serials in Theological Collections’.

Library Hours

9.00 am - 5.00 pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday

9.00 am - 10.00 pm Tuesday and Thursday

Email: library@presbyteriancollege.org

*The Library is closed on all holidays observed by the College.