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Closed 9/1/25 for Labor Day.

As a private property, we are honored to share the beauty and purpose behind our founder Mark and Becky Lanier’s vision. We gladly welcome quiet visits to our library and worshipful moments in our chapel by reservation only. Please call ahead for availability and appointments. 346-336-5010

However, for the safety and privacy of all, the rest of the property remains closed to the public. This includes areas with private residences, gardens and associated buildings, active construction zones, and daily operations essential to maintaining the grounds.

We kindly but firmly ask that you do not go beyond the chapel and library areas. Thank you for respecting our boundaries and helping us preserve the peaceful environment we are called to steward.

The Lanier Theological Library is a research library that welcomes all who abide by library policies and use its resources respectfully. Because the LTL is a research library, we do not allow books to be removed from the building. Please respect the needs of others for a quiet setting in which to read and study.

  • All of the library is a quiet zone, please keep the noise very low.
  • All cell phones should be on vibrate and calls must be taken outdoors.
  • Drinks are allowed, but please bring your own.
  • Please be careful to use coasters on all tables.
  • Please stay in the immediate area of the library and chapel. No one is allowed to go north or east of the chapel.

All tours—whether for large or small groups—must be scheduled in advance.
To request a tour, please complete the form HERE. Once approved, a member of our library staff will contact you with confirmation and further details.

We kindly ask that all supervising adults review these guidelines before arrival. Your cooperation helps us maintain a peaceful, respectful, and enriching environment for all.

  • Visitors may access only the chapel and the library. Remain in the area between the two buildings.
  • Do not enter areas north or east of the chapel, as these are restricted.
  • Our grounds can be difficult to navigate for those with limited mobility. The path between the library and chapel is cobblestone and uneven.
    Please ensure your group includes someone who can assist individuals with mobility needs, if necessary.

Gate Entry Instructions

  • Arriving by Bus:
    Enter through the Hargrave Gate (directions available on our website).
    When you’re 10–15 minutes away, please call 281-477-8400 for parking instructions.
  • Arriving by Car:
    Enter through the Falba Gate.
    Each driver must call 281-477-8400 upon arrival to be granted entry.
  • Maps HERE.

Guidelines for Tours with Young Students

Adult Supervision

  • At least 1 adult for every 2 children is required.
  • Adults must stay with children at all times—including when going upstairs.

Library Conduct

  • Only adults may pull books from the shelves. Children may view them under supervision.
  • Do not re-shelve books; place them on the designated return carts.
  • No food or drink in the chapel or library.

We appreciate your interest in using the Lanier Theological Library and Learning Center as a setting for photography. While the space is undeniably beautiful, it is first and foremost dedicated to the serious study of God’s Word, theological reflection, and providing a quiet place for prayer and contemplation.

To preserve the sacred atmosphere and uphold the mission of the Lanier facilities—as well as to remain in compliance with IRS regulations for non-profit organizations—the scheduling committee can approve only a limited number of photography requests.

A mandatory location fee of $100 applies to any photography session involving a paid photographer, or when photos are taken to commemorate personal events such as weddings, engagements, or graduations. This is distinct from casual, tourist-style photography and helps us maintain the integrity and purpose of our space.

Due to the fact that our calendar is often at or near full capacity, we give priority to requests that closely align with our mission and purpose.

If your request is approved, the following guidelines apply to all sessions, whether for personal use or involving a professional photographer:

Photography Guidelines

  • A limited number of 30-minute sessions are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
  • Appointments must be made in advance, and written confirmation is required. Same-day requests cannot be accommodated.
  • A mandatory location fee of $100 applies to any session.*
  • Photographers may not book multiple clients or offer mini-sessions during a single appointment.
  • Staging and setup must be minimal. No lighting equipment, props, or music may be used.
  • Changing areas are not available for use during photography sessions.
  • Exteriors of the buildings may be used as backdrops, except for Red Dog and Trowbridge Village, which are private property.
  • Please do not obstruct or block access to the Library or Stone Chapel entrances.
  • No photography is allowed inside the Library or the Stone Chapel—this applies to both amateur and professional sessions.
  • All photography must be respectful of and work around the regular operations of the Library, Learning Center, and staff activities.
  • Photos shared online or in any promotional material may not include the Lanier Theological Library name or location.

If you have any questions or would like to request a session, please fill out the request form HERE. We thank you for respecting the mission and atmosphere of the Lanier Theological Library and Learning Center.

*The Lanier Theological Library is owned and operated by the Lanier Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, private operating foundation, and conforms to IRS regulations regarding its use by other than non-profit entities or individuals, including photographers.

Visiting us, to advance your theological study and explore your faith

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