New library director for ALC

Experienced museum curator, researcher and history consultant Catherine Manning is the new Director of Library Services for Australian Lutheran College (ALC).

Catherine, who began the role at the library’s new Adelaide CBD location last month, replaces the former ALC Director of Library Services, Shaun Lancaster, who died suddenly in June 2025.

Most recently, Catherine worked in the library team at the City of Prospect in suburban Adelaide as the Local History Officer. She has a wealth of experience working with museum collections, exhibitions and digital content as a curator. She has also worked in public libraries within the City of Charles Sturt, in Adelaide’s west.

After the appointment, Catherine said she was looking forward to ‘learning more about the library collection and getting to know the community at ALC’.

‘While I am new to the Lutheran community, my history background has given me an appreciation of the important role the Lutheran church has played in South Australia’s history,’ she said.

In welcoming Catherine to the role, ALC Principal Rev Dr Tim Stringer also thanked Academic Dean Dr Merryn Ruwoldt for her efforts in overseeing the administration of the library for the latter half of 2025. ‘In her usual self-sacrificing manner, Merryn stepped up to ensure continuity of service for all library patrons, while continuing to serve in her other significant roles,’ Dr Stringer said.

ALC’s library collection was relocated from the college’s former North Adelaide campus to 22 Pulteney Street, reopening in July.

The library houses a wide range of print and electronic resources and subscribes to current periodicals. It also cooperates with other theological libraries through reciprocal agreements and provides a range of services for remote students, including document delivery. Facilities include study areas suitable for group and individual use, wireless access, printing, copying and scanning.

Library membership is free for pastors, lay workers, staff who work in church offices, and teachers in Lutheran schools.

Further information, including library opening hours and membership application forms, is available at www.alc.edu.au/library