These fixtures are commonly found in places of worship, designed to provide a convenient and organized space for hymnals, prayer books, and other religious texts. Typically affixed to the back of a church pew, these holders offer congregants easy access to materials needed during services and events. Variations exist in design and material, ranging from simple wooden shelves to more elaborate metal or composite structures.
The implementation of these devices enhances the overall worship experience by promoting orderliness and accessibility. By containing necessary texts, they minimize clutter and prevent items from being misplaced or damaged. Historically, the presence of organized textual resources has supported active participation in religious ceremonies and facilitated communal engagement with sacred texts. The consistent availability of materials allows for smoother transitions between hymns, prayers, and readings, contributing to a more focused and reverent atmosphere.
Further discussion will explore specific design considerations, material options, and installation techniques related to these supportive elements within sacred spaces. Considerations regarding accessibility, durability, and aesthetic integration will also be addressed.
1. Durability
The quiet resilience of church furnishings often goes unremarked, yet it underpins the sustained function of sacred spaces. Examine the humble pew book holder: seemingly a minor detail, but its capacity to endure directly impacts the congregation’s engagement with worship. Consider the decades of use, the constant shifting of hymnals, the accidental bumps and scrapeseach a small stress test of its construction. Failure in this seemingly insignificant element disrupts the flow of service and draws attention away from the intended spiritual focus. A fractured holder, a splintered edge, speaks not only of physical damage but also of a subtle neglect that can erode the sense of reverence within the sanctuary. A simple wooden rack becomes a testament to both faith and the commitment to maintaining its physical home.
In the small town of Havenwood, the old Methodist church stands as a testament to steadfast commitment. The original pews, installed in 1928, remain in use, each equipped with solid oak book holders. These fixtures, though showing the patina of age, continue to perform their duty flawlessly. During a recent renovation, the church council considered replacing them with newer, more modern versions, but the minister, a man of quiet wisdom, cautioned against it. He spoke of the enduring quality of the old holders, their ability to withstand not only the passage of time but also the weight of countless prayers and hymns. He argued that their continued use was a symbolic link to the past, a tangible connection to the generations who had gathered within those walls.
Therefore, the durability of these holders transcends mere material strength. It represents a silent promise of continuity, a commitment to preserving the integrity of the worship space for generations to come. Choosing robust materials and thoughtful construction methods becomes an act of stewardship, ensuring that these unassuming fixtures continue to serve their purpose without drawing undue attention or becoming a source of distraction. Ultimately, a durable book holder is an investment in the long-term health and vitality of the church community.
2. Accessibility
Within the hushed confines of a sanctuary, accessibility transcends mere physical accommodation; it embodies an inclusive spirit, ensuring all congregants can fully participate in worship. The placement and design of fixtures like pew book holders profoundly impact this principle. Their presence either empowers engagement or inadvertently creates barriers.
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Height and Reach
The positioning of these holders determines ease of use for individuals of varying heights and physical abilities. Too high, and they become a struggle for shorter individuals or those with limited reach; too low, and they are cumbersome for those with mobility challenges. In the small community church of Oakhaven, the recent adjustment of book holder heights followed the concerns of several elderly parishioners. By lowering the shelves slightly, the church not only eased access but also subtly reinforced a message of welcome and consideration for every member.
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Clarity of Contents
Beyond the holder’s physical accessibility lies the clarity of its contents. Overcrowded spaces or poorly organized materials can hinder quick retrieval of necessary texts. St. Michael’s Cathedral faced this issue until a dedicated volunteer, a retired librarian, reorganized the hymnals and prayer books, ensuring each was readily identifiable and easy to grasp. This simple act transformed a source of minor frustration into one of effortless navigation, allowing congregants to focus solely on the service.
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Inclusive Design
An inclusive design considers the needs of individuals with visual impairments. Braille markings or larger print editions of commonly used texts, housed within accessible holders, can significantly enhance participation. During a renovation of Grace Chapel, the addition of tactile markers on the book holders and large-print hymnals allowed visually impaired members to independently follow the service, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spiritual connection.
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Obstruction-Free Access
The placement of these fixtures should not impede movement within the pew. Protruding edges or awkwardly positioned holders can create obstacles, particularly during crowded services. The First Presbyterian Church redesigned their pew ends to accommodate recessed book holders, eliminating potential tripping hazards and ensuring seamless passage along the pews. This subtle change improved safety and contributed to a more comfortable and welcoming environment.
The pursuit of accessibility in a house of worship is an ongoing endeavor, demanding continuous evaluation and adaptation. It is not merely about complying with regulations but about embodying the core values of compassion and inclusion. Thoughtfully designed and strategically placed book holders are small but significant steps towards creating a truly welcoming space where every member of the congregation can fully participate in the shared experience of faith.
3. Material Choices
The selection of materials for pew book holders is not a mere aesthetic consideration; it is a foundational decision impacting longevity, functionality, and the overall atmosphere of the sacred space. A seemingly simple choice carries significant weight, influencing the visual harmony of the sanctuary and the tactile experience of its occupants. Consider the stark contrast between a sturdy oak holder, deeply stained and richly grained, and a flimsy plastic alternative. The former evokes a sense of tradition and enduring quality, subtly reinforcing the timeless nature of faith. The latter, regardless of its price point, whispers of impermanence and compromises the overall reverence of the space. This interplay between material and perception is paramount. A small detail can change the feeling of the room, and the church must do everything in their power to make the feeling a welcoming, peaceful place.
In the coastal town of Seabrook, the historic St. Andrew’s church faced a dilemma after a devastating hurricane damaged much of its interior. The original oak pew book holders, soaked and warped, were deemed irreparable. The restoration committee debated between replacing them with identical oak replicas or opting for a more modern, moisture-resistant composite material. After much deliberation, they chose a carefully crafted blend of recycled wood and resin. This choice, while seemingly pragmatic, preserved the aesthetic integrity of the church while ensuring greater resilience against future environmental challenges. The subtle shift in material, imperceptible to most, allowed the church to honor its past while embracing a more sustainable future. This new material will allow the church to be around for generations.
Ultimately, the story of material choices for pew book holders is a narrative of balancing practical needs with aesthetic considerations and a deep respect for the sanctity of the worship environment. Each material tells a story: of tradition, innovation, resilience, or neglect. Careful consideration of these narratives ensures that these humble fixtures contribute positively to the spiritual experience, silently supporting the congregation’s connection to faith and community. It is more than just a place to keep books, it is a tradition.
4. Design Style
The design style of pew book holders operates far beyond mere ornamentation. It is a silent language, communicating volumes about a church’s history, values, and relationship with its congregation. These holders, often overlooked, are integral to the aesthetic narrative of the sanctuary, either harmonizing with or clashing against the established visual vocabulary. A Gothic-style church, with its soaring arches and intricate tracery, demands book holders that reflect this architectural grandeur. Simple, unadorned shelves would appear jarringly out of place, disrupting the carefully cultivated atmosphere of reverence and awe. Conversely, a modern, minimalist church would find ornate, heavily carved holders equally incongruous, creating a visual discord that undermines the intended sense of simplicity and clarity. In essence, the design style of these seemingly minor fixtures functions as a microcosm of the church’s overall aesthetic philosophy. A poorly designed pew book holder can completely offset the rest of the room, and take focus off of the place of worship.
Consider the tale of two churches, each grappling with this very issue. In the first, St. Mary’s, a venerable cathedral steeped in tradition, the original oak book holders, meticulously carved with religious symbols, had begun to show their age. The church council, eager to modernize, proposed replacing them with sleek, contemporary metal holders. The outcry from the congregation was immediate and vociferous. Members argued that the modern holders, while undeniably functional, were aesthetically incompatible with the cathedral’s historic character, diminishing its spiritual atmosphere. The council relented, opting instead to restore the original holders, preserving the visual harmony and respecting the church’s rich heritage. The second church, the newly established Community Church of the Light, embraced a decidedly modern aesthetic. The sanctuary featured clean lines, natural light, and a minimalist design. When selecting book holders, the church deliberately chose simple, unadorned wooden shelves, seamlessly integrating them into the overall visual scheme. These understated holders, while lacking ornate detail, contributed to the church’s intended sense of openness and tranquility, reflecting its progressive values and contemporary approach to worship.
In conclusion, the design style of pew book holders transcends superficial aesthetics. It is a vital element in the overall visual composition of the sanctuary, influencing the congregation’s perception of the space and its connection to the church’s values. A careful consideration of design style, guided by a deep understanding of the church’s history, architectural context, and desired atmosphere, ensures that these humble fixtures contribute positively to the spiritual experience, silently supporting the congregation’s journey of faith. The design is not just about how it looks, but about the feeling it evokes.
5. Installation Methods
The method of securing these fixtures within a sacred space is a silent, often overlooked, determinant of both their longevity and the safety of the congregation. A poorly executed installation undermines the inherent value of even the most meticulously crafted holder, transforming it from a supportive aid into a potential hazard. The choice of installation technique, therefore, demands careful consideration, balancing aesthetic integration with structural integrity.
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Screw Fastening
The most prevalent approach involves the use of screws to affix the book holders directly to the pew. This method offers a secure and stable connection, provided that appropriately sized and rated screws are employed. However, improper screw selection or over-tightening can lead to wood splitting or thread stripping, compromising the holder’s stability. At the historic Trinity Church, a recent inspection revealed that many of the original book holders were secured with screws that had corroded over time. The restoration team carefully replaced these with stainless steel screws, ensuring a lasting and rust-resistant connection, effectively preserving the integrity of the antique pews.
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Adhesive Bonding
In situations where drilling into the pew is undesirable or impractical, adhesive bonding presents an alternative solution. Modern construction adhesives offer remarkable strength and durability, capable of withstanding significant weight and stress. However, successful adhesive bonding requires meticulous surface preparation, ensuring that both the pew and the book holder are clean, dry, and free from any contaminants that could impede adhesion. The Chapel of the Pines, seeking to minimize disruption during a renovation, opted for adhesive bonding to install new book holders. The project manager, a seasoned carpenter, insisted on thoroughly sanding and cleaning the pew surfaces before applying the adhesive, resulting in a secure and aesthetically pleasing installation.
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Bracket Mounting
Bracket mounting involves attaching the book holder to the pew using metal brackets. This method offers a versatile and adjustable solution, allowing for precise positioning and alignment. Brackets can be either screwed or bolted to the pew, providing a robust and reliable connection. The First Baptist Church, known for its adaptive reuse of space, utilized bracket mounting to install book holders on existing pews that varied in width and depth. The adjustable nature of the brackets allowed the church to accommodate these variations, ensuring a consistent and uniform appearance throughout the sanctuary.
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Mortise and Tenon Joints
A more traditional approach, often employed in handcrafted or custom-built pews, involves the use of mortise and tenon joints to integrate the book holder directly into the pew structure. This method creates an exceptionally strong and durable connection, seamlessly blending the holder with the pew itself. However, mortise and tenon joinery requires specialized woodworking skills and precise execution, making it a more costly and time-consuming option. The artisans at the Woodsong Workshop, commissioned to create new pews for the St. Jude’s Cathedral, painstakingly crafted each book holder with mortise and tenon joints, ensuring a timeless and elegant addition to the sacred space.
Each installation method presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages, demanding a careful evaluation of the specific context and requirements of the project. The selection of an appropriate installation technique is not merely a technical detail; it is an act of stewardship, ensuring that these humble fixtures serve their purpose safely and reliably for generations to come. A strong and dependable connection to the pews allows for the book holders to be used as needed, while keeping the congregation safe and focused on the message and sermons.
6. Space Efficiency
Within the hallowed walls of a church, every square foot carries a certain significance. The intelligent use of this space speaks to a community’s commitment to both worship and fellowship. Pew book holders, often perceived as simple conveniences, play a crucial role in optimizing the available area, contributing to an environment of both order and welcome.
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Maximizing Seating Capacity
The primary function of a sanctuary is to accommodate the congregation. Efficiently designed book holders minimize the encroachment upon individual seating space. A protruding or bulky design can reduce usable space, causing discomfort and reducing the overall seating capacity. At the overflowing St. Jude’s parish, a recent switch to recessed book holders allowed the church to comfortably seat an additional two individuals per pew, alleviating overcrowding and promoting a more inclusive atmosphere.
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Streamlining Movement
Beyond seating, ease of movement within the pew is paramount. Book holders that jut out or create obstructions can impede ingress and egress, especially during crowded services. The elderly or those with mobility challenges are particularly affected by such impediments. The First Presbyterian Church, in response to congregational feedback, redesigned their book holders to be flush with the pew backs, eliminating potential tripping hazards and facilitating smoother movement throughout the sanctuary.
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Reducing Clutter
A clutter-free environment fosters a sense of peace and reverence. Book holders serve as designated repositories for hymnals, prayer books, and other materials, preventing them from scattering across the pew or ending up on the floor. This simple act of organization significantly enhances the visual appeal of the sanctuary. The small community church of Havenwood, renowned for its tidy and well-maintained interior, credits its consistently organized pews to the thoughtful implementation of strategically placed book holders.
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Optimizing Storage
In some instances, book holders can incorporate additional storage features, such as small shelves or compartments for personal items like eyeglasses or hearing aids. This dual functionality further maximizes the use of available space, minimizing clutter and enhancing convenience. The Grace Chapel, known for its innovative approach to church design, integrated small storage compartments into their book holders, providing congregants with a discreet and convenient place to store personal belongings during services.
The strategic implementation of pew book holders is more than a mere logistical consideration; it is an expression of respect for the congregation and a commitment to creating a welcoming and functional worship space. By thoughtfully considering space efficiency, churches can optimize their available area, fostering an environment of both order and inclusivity. From making the place welcoming for the elderly, or to even improving storage space for eye glasses, the design is not just aesthetics, but functionality.
7. Aesthetic Harmony
The visual unity within a house of worship speaks volumes about its values. It reflects a careful consideration of every element, from the soaring architecture to the humblest fitting. Pew book holders, though seemingly minor components, are integral to this aesthetic harmony, capable of either enhancing or disrupting the overall visual narrative.
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Material Resonance
The selection of materials profoundly impacts the visual synergy of the space. A mismatch between the book holders and the pews, or the surrounding dcor, can create a jarring effect. At St. Michael’s Cathedral, the original oak pews were complemented by book holders crafted from the same wood, their finish mirroring the rich tones of the seating. This material resonance created a seamless visual flow, enhancing the cathedral’s sense of timeless elegance. When later replacements were considered in metal, the new choices clashed against the pews and threw off the feel of the building. This shows the importance of sticking to one material and maintaining the beauty of the design.
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Style Congruence
The design style of the book holders must align with the architectural style of the church. A modern, minimalist church would be ill-served by ornate, Victorian-era book holders, while a Gothic cathedral would find simple, unadorned shelves equally incongruous. The First Presbyterian Church, a building with clean lines and a contemporary feel, chose simple, unadorned wooden book holders that seamlessly blended into the overall design, reinforcing the church’s modern aesthetic.
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Color Coordination
The color of the book holders plays a crucial role in maintaining visual harmony. A jarring color contrast can draw unwanted attention, disrupting the serene atmosphere of the sanctuary. At Grace Chapel, the book holders were stained to match the pews, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing effect. This careful color coordination allowed the book holders to blend seamlessly into the background, allowing the focus to remain on the altar and the stained-glass windows.
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Proportion and Scale
The size and proportion of the book holders must be appropriate for the size of the pews and the overall scale of the sanctuary. Book holders that are too large can appear bulky and intrusive, while those that are too small can seem insignificant and lost. At the historic Trinity Church, the book holders were carefully sized to complement the pews, creating a sense of balance and proportion that enhanced the beauty of the sacred space. The proportions can completely change the feel of the room, and in a church, this is important.
These facets of aesthetic harmony work in concert to create a visually pleasing and spiritually uplifting environment. When pew book holders are thoughtfully integrated into the overall design scheme, they contribute to a sense of unity and reverence, enhancing the worship experience for the entire congregation. As seen in many churches, it is best to stick with the status quo and avoid any kind of changes that can mess up the design.
8. Weight Capacity
Within a house of worship, the capacity to bear weight is more than a mere engineering specification; it is a quiet promise of reliability, an assurance that these fixtures will steadfastly fulfill their purpose. The weight capacity of church pew book holders is a critical consideration, often unnoticed until a failure occurs, disrupting the serenity of the service.
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Hymnal Volumes
The most direct determinant of weight capacity is the hymnal itself. Some congregations favor slim, modern editions, while others cherish thicker, more comprehensive volumes. The latter, often containing both musical scores and extensive liturgical texts, can exert significant pressure on the book holder, particularly when multiple copies are stacked. At the historic St. Andrew’s church, the decision to switch to lighter, paperback hymnals was driven not only by cost considerations but also by concerns about the aging pew book holders, which had begun to show signs of strain under the weight of the traditional hardbound editions. A careful consideration must be made to choose a size of books, or the holders must be reinforced.
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Service Books and Prayer Books
Beyond hymnals, many churches utilize additional service books, prayer books, and missals. These materials, often bound in leather or heavy cloth, can further increase the load on the book holder. Furthermore, congregants may bring their own personal Bibles or devotionals, adding to the cumulative weight. At the overflowing St. Mary’s parish, the combination of heavy hymnals and personal Bibles frequently exceeded the weight capacity of the original book holders, resulting in occasional failures. The church eventually replaced the holders with reinforced versions, capable of withstanding the increased load.
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Material Strength
The material composition of the book holder directly dictates its weight-bearing capacity. Solid hardwoods, such as oak or maple, offer greater strength and durability than softer woods or composite materials. Metal holders, particularly those constructed from steel or wrought iron, provide exceptional load-bearing capabilities. The Chapel of the Pines, seeking to ensure long-term reliability, opted for solid oak book holders, capable of withstanding the weight of heavy hymnals and frequent use. It is best to go with heavy material to support the weight of the books.
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Structural Design
The design of the book holder significantly influences its ability to distribute weight effectively. A well-designed holder will feature reinforced joints, sturdy supports, and a balanced weight distribution. A poorly designed holder, with weak points or inadequate support, is more likely to fail under load. The architects at the Woodsong Workshop, when designing new pews for the St. Jude’s Cathedral, incorporated a triangular support system into the book holders, distributing the weight evenly and maximizing their load-bearing capacity. Weight needs to be distributed or there will be too much strain in one area.
In conclusion, the weight capacity of pew book holders is a crucial, albeit often overlooked, aspect of church design and maintenance. From the heft of the hymnals to the strength of the materials and the ingenuity of the structural design, every element plays a role in ensuring the reliable and safe performance of these humble fixtures. A failure in this regard can disrupt the serenity of the service and undermine the sense of reverence within the sacred space. Thus, a careful consideration of weight capacity is an act of stewardship, ensuring that these fixtures continue to serve their purpose without drawing undue attention or becoming a source of concern, because the most important part of the church is the worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Within the sacred architecture of a church, questions inevitably arise concerning the fixtures designed to support worship. The subsequent inquiries address common concerns surrounding the design, installation, and maintenance of pew book holders, providing clarity to those responsible for preserving the integrity and functionality of these vital components.
Question 1: What factors should be considered when determining the appropriate height for pew book holders?
Historical precedent offers guidance: In the early 20th century, a small parish found that the newly installed book holders were too high for many of its elderly members. This oversight resulted in discomfort and reduced participation during services. The appropriate height should accommodate the diverse physical statures within the congregation, ensuring ease of access for both children and adults, promoting inclusivity and preventing strain during extended periods of use.
Question 2: How can one ensure the longevity of church pew book holders, particularly in environments with fluctuating humidity levels?
Tales of resilience echo from age-old sanctuaries: A grand cathedral learned a harsh lesson when its ornate, wooden book holders began to warp and crack due to seasonal humidity variations. Selecting wood species inherently resistant to moisture, and applying protective finishes, is paramount. Regular inspections and climate control measures also mitigate the risk of damage, preserving these fixtures for future generations.
Question 3: What are the potential liabilities associated with poorly installed or maintained church pew book holders?
The specter of accidents casts a somber light: A tragic incident occurred when a faulty book holder dislodged, causing injury to a parishioner. Inadequate installation, loose screws, or neglected repairs can create hazardous conditions. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and adherence to safety standards are essential to prevent such incidents and ensure the well-being of the congregation.
Question 4: Can the design of church pew book holders be adapted to accommodate individuals with visual impairments?
Inclusivity inspires innovation: A community-minded church discovered a renewed sense of belonging when large-print hymnals were offered to those visually impaired. Thoughtful design can incorporate features such as larger recesses, tactile markings, or even integrated lighting to aid individuals with visual limitations. Such adaptations demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all members of the congregation.
Question 5: What methods can be employed to secure church pew book holders against theft or vandalism?
The shadow of disrespect necessitates vigilance: A wave of petty thefts prompted a church to implement discreet security measures for their valuable hymnals and book holders. Secure fastening mechanisms, tamper-resistant hardware, and even strategically placed security cameras can deter such acts, preserving the sanctity of the worship space and safeguarding its assets.
Question 6: How can a church balance the desire for modern aesthetics with the historical integrity of its existing pews when replacing or installing book holders?
Harmony arises from thoughtful compromise: A historic church meticulously studied original plans to ensure any new design must be similar to the rest. A blend of respect for tradition and innovation is achieved through careful material selection, design adaptations that echo historical motifs, or by commissioning skilled artisans capable of replicating period styles. Preservation of history is just as important, in a sense, to honoring the church itself.
These frequently asked questions underscore the importance of diligence and thoughtful planning when addressing issues related to pew book holders. By considering these inquiries and implementing appropriate solutions, churches can ensure the continued functionality, safety, and aesthetic harmony of their sacred spaces.
The subsequent section delves into real-world examples of churches that have successfully addressed challenges related to church pew book holders, offering practical insights and actionable strategies.
Tips for Choosing Church Pew Book Holders
Selecting these seemingly simple fixtures demands a mindful approach, balancing practical needs with aesthetic considerations. Tales from parishes across the land reveal valuable lessons for ensuring a harmonious and functional addition to the sacred space.
Tip 1: Assess Congregational Needs: A rural church learned this lesson firsthand when it installed uniform book holders, neglecting the specific needs of its elderly members. The resulting discomfort and reduced participation prompted a costly retrofit. Prior assessment of congregational demographics and physical capabilities ensures that selected fixtures serve all members effectively.
Tip 2: Prioritize Durability: The tale of a grand cathedral whose ornate, wooden book holders crumbled after years of use serves as a cautionary reminder. Investing in durable materials, such as solid hardwoods or reinforced metal, safeguards against premature wear and tear, minimizing long-term replacement costs.
Tip 3: Embrace Aesthetic Harmony: A modern church discovered that sleek, metal book holders clashed jarringly with its traditional, wooden pews. A conscious effort to align the design style with the church’s architectural character ensures a cohesive and visually pleasing environment, enhancing the overall worship experience.
Tip 4: Consider Accessibility: An inner-city church recognized that its high book holders were inaccessible to many of its younger members and those with mobility issues. Adjusting the height to accommodate a range of physical statures promotes inclusivity and fosters a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Tip 5: Strategize Installation: A newly constructed church learned the hard way that improperly installed book holders can pose a safety hazard. Secure fastening mechanisms, such as screws or brackets, are critical for preventing dislodgement and minimizing the risk of injury to the congregation. Proper installation will help the users utilize the book holders as needed.
Tip 6: Optimize Space Efficiency: A small chapel discovered that bulky book holders encroached upon valuable seating space. Selecting slimline or recessed designs maximizes the usable area within each pew, enhancing comfort and increasing overall seating capacity.
Tip 7: Factor in Weight Capacity: One historical church realized their book holders were beginning to sag due to the weight of large hardback hymnals. Always calculate the likely total weight to be supported and select your materials accordingly.
Thoughtful selection of book holders requires due diligence, weighing various practical and aesthetic elements. Consider your needs to determine which book holders are best for your church and congregation.
With these key considerations addressed, the concluding section will further reinforce the essence of pew book holders, in supporting the church itself.
Conclusion
The preceding discussion has charted a comprehensive course through the multifaceted world of church pew book holders. From their inherent material composition and structural integrity to their nuanced aesthetic integration and crucial contribution to accessibility, each facet has been dissected, analyzed, and contextualized within the broader framework of religious architectural design. The narrative has underscored their silent but profound influence on the worship experience, highlighting their capacity to either enhance or detract from the solemnity and inclusivity of the sanctuary.
In the quiet halls of faith, every detail holds significance. Its more than just supporting books. The enduring value of church pew book holders lies not merely in their utilitarian function, but in their unwavering contribution to the spiritual and communal life of the church. Let those responsible for the stewardship of these sacred spaces reflect on these considerations, ensuring that every element, however humble, serves to uplift and unite the congregation in a shared pursuit of the divine. This careful balance allows for the traditions to be followed, and future generations to be welcomed. The book holders are only one piece of this delicate and ever changing plan.
