The Brown Library and Archives acquired three high-profile special item collections, which include the papers of Max Lucado, David Edwin Harrell Jr. and Hallum Aubrey.

The university acquires items for two reasons: university archives or academic research or papers. Students from all over the world can access the archives online including books, photos and audio scans without logins or fees. Annual Summits dating back to the ’60s have been recorded and made available to watch online.

In order to be considered a special item, the item must be a primary source and contain something unique or be unique itself, such as an autographed book. While part of the library’s budget is set aside yearly for obtaining special items, most of the items are obtained through donations.

Max Lucado’s papers provide insight into the ACU alumni’s conversations about Christianity around the world, as well as his global network of people.

“He is really one of the first superstar Christian authors of the 21st century,” said Dr. John Weaver, Dean of Library Services.

David Edwin Harrell Jr. represents two important shifts. One is the sociology shift when humans began to understand that social circumstance – such as economics, location, government and religion – affects which religion we choose. He also represents the global expansion of Christianity.

These two authors provide counterpoints to each other because Lucado writes to be understood by almost anyone, whereas David Edwin Harrell Jr. writes for scholars.

Another recent addition is around 75 rolls from Hallum Aubrey, an architect who designed many Churches of Christ. His designs include heavy importance on the communion table and the ability to enhance the sound of a cappella through design and architecture, which appeals to several different departments at the university.