Sharon L. Baker

Why did God have to murder his only son to pay our debts? What kind of vengeful, violent God can only be satisfied by vicarious blood atonement? In Executing God, theologian Sharon Baker presents a biblically based and theologically sound critique of popular theories of the atonement. Concerned about the number of acts of violence performed in the name of God, Baker challenges cultural assumptions about the death of Jesus and its meaning to Christians. She ultimately offers a constructive alternate view of atonement based on God's forgiveness that opens up salvation to a wider group of people.

The idea of hell can haunt dreams and disturb sleep. Many wonder at the justice (or injustice) of it all, feeling confounded by a God who deems it necessary to send the majority of humanity to burn there forever. Seventy percent of Americans believe in hell, as do ninety-two percent of those who attend church every week. Clearly, it's a hot topic. Baker offers readers a safe space to contemplate tough issues as they rethink traditional views of hell. In her candid and inviting style Baker explores and ultimately refutes many traditional views of hell, presenting instead theologically sound ways of thinking that are more consistent with the image of God as a loving creator who desires to liberate us from sin and evil. This is an excellent selection for general readers, students, pastors, professors, and grief counselors, and will provide clarity for those with questions about hell, God's judgment, and what happens to us when we die.

How can public libraries successfully meet the needs of their patrons and their communities, and build support for their endeavors? Focusing on the heart and soul of the library—its collection—the authors show how proven marketing techniques can be applied to library collection development in today's high-tech environment. With examples and statistics from more than 200 libraries of all sizes, the book gathers decades of pertinent research and a wealth of creative ideas and winning tactics for public libraries. After a brief discussion of the rationale for a marketing approach, the book takes you through each step of an effective marketing initiative: from market research and creating a master plan through collection evaluation, selection, costs, access, and promotional policies and practices. A great idea-generator and how-to guide for any library staff member, especially those in management positions, this is also essential reading for LIS students preparing for careers in public libraries.