news article
UNY Resource Center going fully digital
October 21, 2024 / By Rev. Dr. Aaron Bouwens, Director of Missional Engagement / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
In a quiet corner of 7481 Henry Clay Blvd., where United Methodists of Upper New York house their Conference Offices, Mission HUB, and the Upper New York Episcopal Offices reside, sits the UNY Resource Center. The Center is home to hundreds of resources for Bible studies, book studies, and other items to support the ministry of local churches. From the shelves of material, items are packaged and mailed to local churches, or leaders can browse the shelves. Over the past few years there has been a steady decline in the number of resources being used, and even fewer leaders connecting with the Resource Center.
Less than 5 percent of our congregations utilize the Resource Center. While those who have used and benefited from the Resource Center express their appreciation, it is clear a library of physical resources is not the support over 95 percent of our congregations are seeking. At the same time the need for current, relevant, and well-done resources remains. In Amplify Media. This is a fully online and digital library of resources congregations can stream rather than wait on the mail to deliver the desired resource.
As the calendar flips to 2025, Upper New York will discontinue the use of the physical Resource Center and transition to a fully digital format. This will primarily be through Amplify Media and a soon to be launched on-line learning platform called Portico. Both of these digital resources are part of our connection with United Methodist Churches around the world and will help keep the available resources up to date more quickly than a physical library.
Beginning November 1, 2024, when a church uses a resource from the Resource Center in Liverpool, they may keep that resource rather than returning it to the Center. In January of 2025, leaders will be invited to come to Liverpool and take resources they would like to have. There will be no cost for the resources taken, however donations will be accepted. Donations will go to the Engage Fund as we invest in our emerging generations. On February 1, all remaining resources will be packaged and ministries who have a need with be given the resources.
For a few of our congregations this will present a change in the way they are able to access resources, and in the places where internet connection is a barrier, the Missional Excellence area of the Conference will work with congregations to create an appropriate solution.