Since the library is one of Emmanuel’s chief educational resources, the Librarian is a vital part of the institution and holds a full faculty appointment. Tom Stokes fills this role in an excellent manner. Since becoming librarian at Emmanuel in 1975, he has built the School’s library collection to more than 85,500 titles and over 132,000 items. He serves as a reference consultant for the entire Emmanuel community.

Tom served three years as an electronics technician in the United States Navy. He, then, received his A.B. degree from Malone College, the M.Div. degree from Emmanuel, and the Master of Library Science from George Peabody College for Teachers. He received his D.Min. degree from Emmanuel School of Religion in 2002.

Dr. Stokes is a member of the American Library Association, the American Theological Library Association, the Association of Christian Librarians, Tennessee Theological Library Association, and the Disciples of Christ Historical Society. He gives much attention to collecting resources and memorabilia connected with the Stone-Campbell tradition and making the collection of written materials available in the Restoration Movement Archives for research by Emmanuel’s faculty, students and other scholars. Tom is also a member of Association for Doctor of Ministry Education. 

Dr. Stokes served in the Navy from 1960-63 and as a chaplain in the Tennessee Army National Guard from 1974-2002. He is a veteran of Operation Desert Shield/Storm, having served in both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait in 1990–91. Dr. Stokes, also, serves as a commissioner and treasurer on the Chaplaincy Endorsement Commission of the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ. He advises students who are interested in preparing for ministry as military chaplains.

Tom and his wife, Barbara, have two adult sons.