Kellar Library Celebrates 60 Years

By PHILLIP WADDELL
Kellar Library Director

​On July 22, the Baptist Missionary Association (BMA) Theological Seminary celebrated 60 years of its Gerald D. Kellar Memorial Library. Multiple speakers talked about the history and significance of Kellar Library. The Honorable Randy Gorham, mayor of Jacksonville, presented a city proclamation naming July 22 as Kellar Library Day. Other speakers included Jerrie Sue Cleaver, daughter of Dr. Gerald Kellar and Seminary trustee, Alicia Johnson, Kellar Library Public Services Manager, Dr. James Blaylock, former Kellar Library Director, and Phillip Waddell, current Kellar Library Director.

Mrs. Cleaver shared the vision and legacy of Dr. Kellar, and Mrs. Johnson presented the history of Kellar Library. Dr. Blaylock, who served Kellar Library for 52 years (38 as library director), spoke on the professional organizations with which the library has been affiliated. Mr. Waddell spoke about the future importance of Kellar Library.

Jerrie Sue Cleaver presented copies of 10 books written by her husband, the late Dr. Tony Cleaver, as a permanent addition to Kellar Library’s collection. Dr. Cleaver previously served BMA Seminary as Professor of Biblical Studies and Director of Distance Education. Each attendee received a copy of Dr. Gerald Kellar’s sermon outlines and a commemorative page marker. Following the ceremony, library tours were provided, allowing attendees to view a sepher torah scroll and ancient manuscripts. Approximately 50 church leaders and Jacksonville officials attended the event.

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