NALIS encourages public into Library again

Author: RESHMA BAAL
Title: NALIS encourages public into Library again
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
Date: Tuesday, September 28 2010
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,128229.html

Abstract:
The article reports on some of the public relations and promotional activities undertaken by the National Library and Information Systems Authority’s (NALIS’) that marked its celebration of National Library Week and to promote the library's programmes and service to the public.

Excerpt:

Encourage reading. This was the message at the National Library and Information Systems Authority’s (NALIS’) fourth annual Tale-a-Ton, which was held at the National Library in Port- of-Spain at the weekend.

The Tale-a-Ton launched NALIS’ week of celebration, known as National Library Week, which runs from September 26 to October 2.

This year’s theme of National Library Week is “Get into the library again.”

Public Relations and Marketing Manager of NALIS, Debbie Goodman, said the National Library week is being used to bring into focus, the libraries and how they work, “in terms of developing communities and people.”

UWI assists Haitian National Archives and National Library

Title: UWI Assists in Rebuilding Higher Education in Haiti
Source: The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus
Date Posted: October 29, 2010
URL: http://myspot.mona.uwi.edu/proffice/newsroom/entry/3993


Abstract:
UWI provides assistance to assist the staff of the National Library of Haiti and the Haitian National Archives.

Excerpt
In July a team from Mona traveled to Haiti. In Port-au-Prince they organized and delivered two workshops in basic binding and conservation techniques for staff of the National Library of Haiti and the Haitian National Archives. Additionally, they assisted with repair/restoration work and monitored the work being done by the persons trained. Also, a librarian from the National Library of Haiti is now on internship at the Main library of the Mona Campus.

The 'Labour of Love': The Jamaican anti-literacy cultural project

Author: Natalie D. A. Bennett, Contributor

Title: "Confront the anti-literacy culture - Part 1"

Source: Jamaica Gleaner

Date published: Sunday, October 3, 2010

URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20101003/focus/focus81.html


Abstract:
The author relates her activism and project in transforming Jamaican urban public spaces into centres for the promotion of literacy in Jamaican children.

Excerpt:
Whether we realise it or not, making illiteracy a thing of the past will require far more than big speeches and grand declarations about the importance of knowing how to read. It will take work. The question is: are we ready to do what is necessary?

In August of this year, I created a project called 'Labour of Love' in Kingston and Montego Bay. Part street performance and part activism, I wanted to see what would happen if love - not charity, shame, punishment, guilt, obligation - were the driving force for engaging in intentional, and hopefully, transformative social action in Jamaica's public spaces. In ten days, I did a variety of activities: made sidewalk art, crafted wills, distributed reading material, gave away vegetable seeds, and did bra fittings. And for half of that time, I worked with school-aged children on the sidewalks of downtown Kingston. Armed with rubber-stamps, crayons, pencils, markers, word and math games, and a plethora of worksheets, I tried to tailor each child's activities to his/her abilities and interests. Age was not a useful predictor of any ability, as I discovered. A 'class' of five children quickly grew to a 'school' of over 20 by the end of the week

Libraries are still relevant - say Jamaican library experts

Author: Laura Redpath, Senior Gleaner Writer
Title: Libraries still relevant
Source: Jamaican Gleaner
Date Published: Saturday, September 18, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100918/lead/lead5.html


Excerpt:

EXPERTS WITHIN library information systems yesterday challenged assumptions that Jamaican libraries are losing their relevance in the age of the Internet.

Representatives from library services in academia and the National Library of Jamaica met at The Gleaner Company yesterday to discuss the role that libraries play in society.

Abstract:

A group of library experts meting with the Gleaner Company to discuss the role that libraries play in society. This article reports some of the comments made at that meeting by the library experts. Also indicated here is information that five of the nine persons interviewed by The Gleaner still found libraries to be relevant. Also in this article is brief biographical data on a few Jamaican library experts.

National Library of Jamaica's Digital exhibition on the Sam Sharpe Rebellion

Title: National Library Mounts Online Exhibit on Sam Sharpe Rebellion
Source:
Date Published: Sunday, May 16, 2010

URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/education/html/20100515T190000-0500_23953_JIS_NATIONAL_LIBRARY_MOUNTS_ONLINE_EXHIBIT_ON_SAM_SHARPE_REBELLION.asp

Abstract:
The article reports on an online exhibition by the National Library of Jamaica on its website. This exhibition will feature information on one of the first strike by Jamaican-born slaves. Information about the items to be exhibited are given as well as the date when the exhibition will be viewable.


Excerpt:

An online exhibition on the Sam Sharpe Rebellion of 1831 has been established by the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) for Labour Day. The exhibit will open on Monday, May 17 at the NLJ's new website at www.nlj.gov.jm.

Public Relations and Marketing Officer at the NLJ, Denise Walker, told JIS News that persons visiting the site will be able to view a map, which shows the sugar estates in the parishes of St. James, Trelawny and St. Elizabeth that were burnt during the uprising.

This map, which was drawn in 1832, shortly after the slave rebellion was quashed, has been digitised and set in a format that could be accessed by computer.

Dr Joyce Robinson honoured

Title: FISH honours Joyce Robinson, Fr Grenier
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Saturday, April 3, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100403/social/social2.html

Abstract:
The article reports on the ceremony that honoured Dr. Joyce Robinson, a Jamaican library professional that was a former Director of the Jamaica Library Service. Information about her work and contributions to Jamaica are mentioned in brief.


Excerpt:

"Dr Joyce Robinson and Father Louis Grenier, distinguished public servant and clergyman, respectively, have been honoured by the Foundation for the International Self Help Development (Ja) Limited (FISH)....

Dr Robinson is a distinguished public servant who has contributed significantly in the areas of library service, literacy, education and vocational training. She is a former director of the Jamaica Library Service and the Jamaican Movement for the Advancement of Literacy (JAMAL); general manager of the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation and managing director of the Human Employment and Resource Training (HEART) Trust."

Dr Joyce Robinson honoured for outstanding service to Jamaica

Title: FISH marks 25 years
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Tuesday, March 23, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100323/news/news2.html

Abstract:
The article reports that the Foundation for International Self Help Development Jamaica Limited (FISH) are to honour Dr. Joyce Robinson, a Jamaican librarian and former director of the Jamaica Library Service.


Excerpt:
Robinson is a distinguished public servant who has contributed significantly in the areas of library service, literacy, education and vocational training. She is a former director of the Jamaica Library Service.

Artifacts being collected for Jamaican Music Museum; museum to open 2011?

Title: Artifacts being gathered for museum of Jamaican music

Source: KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP)/ Jamaica Observer

Date Published: Wednesday, March 10, 2010

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/music-museum_7469448

Abstract:
Article reports on plans to open the new Jamaican music museum in 2011. Yet the date is not official. Information is also given about the proposed scope of collection and some of the artifacts it will collect, preserve and showcase. The political/government agency responsible for the museum is also mentioned.


Excerpt:

Jamaica plans to open a music museum next year that officials say will feature rare pieces from the island's music history, such as the sole album that the late reggae star Bob Marley produced before he gained international fame.

Artifacts will include a cassette tape in which another reggae great, Peter Tosh, jams a blues song with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones....

The museum is requesting donations to help preserve Jamaica's vibrant music history. The island's music preservation took a major hit two years ago when officials discovered that a massive collection of 1970s music, including original recordings by Marley and Tosh, disappeared from the archives of the former Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC).

Lawyer calls for a Jamaican Sports Museum

Author: DANIA BOGLE Observer staff reporter
Title: Franklyn: Time for a J'can Sports Museum
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date published: Thursday, March 18, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Sports-Museum-_7491857


Abstract:
The article reports on a lecture by attorney-at-law (with speciality in sports law), and former government minister, Delano Franklyn, who calls for the Jamaican Government to set up a Sports Museum. Franklyn in this report provides evidence of calls for the Jamaican Sports Museum in the past by Government officials. A rationale for the sports museum is outlined as well as an opinion about what such a museum could contain and how it could be financed.

Excerpt:

A Jamaican Sports Museum must be established in order to continue nation-building through sports, said attorney-at-law and former government minister Delano Franklyn.

Franklyn made the statement during his presentation Sport in Jamaica: A Local and International Perspective at the annual GraceKennedy Foundation Lecture at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel on Tuesday.

Franklyn's idea of a Sports Museum includes a building where locals and foreigners could view Jamaican sports memorabilia, footage from sporting events, and a seminar room for ongoing discussions on sport.

Barbados opens a Museum Gift shop

Author: (CH)
Title: Museum shop opens
Source: Barbados Nation News
Date published: March 21, 2010.
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/news/business/museum-shop-copy-for-web

Abstract:
The article reports on the opening of a museum gift shop by the Barbados Museum & Historic Society to sell products that reflect Barbadian heritage. Funding behind the gift shop is also mentioned. Also new plans for the museum and its tours are highlighted by the marketing officer Christine Skeete.


Excerpt:

THE Barbados Museum & Historic Society officially threw open the doors of its spanking new gift shop at the Garrison...

"We will be adding more and more products as time goes on. Our intention is to work more closely with some of our artists to development products that will be customised for the museum [and] that will reflect Barbadian heritage and culture in a unique way. We are looking to make it a venue where both locals and visitors would feel they want to come back to get new and interesting products."

Jamaican Music Museum gets new collection; permanent home still forthcoming

Author: BASIL WALTERS Observer staff reporter
Title: Jamaica Journal — first edition on Jamaican music launched
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date published: Sunday, March 07, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/JAMAICA-JOURNAL

Abstract:
The article reports on the launch of a special Jamaica Journal issued on the subject of Jamaican Music. At this event, the Minister of of Youth, Sports and Culture Olivia Babsy Grange highlights plans to establish a permanent home for the the museum of Jamaican Music, as well as a digitisation project aimed at digitising the music collection.

The article also reports on the handing over ceremony of a collection belonging to Dermott Hussey, a broadcaster, music historian and collector of Jamaican music for over 50 years, to the museum. Hussey's rationale behind donating the collection to the museum is also reported.

Excerpt:

Stressing that downtown Kingston is the future cultural mecca of Jamaica, Minister Grange announced that a permanent home for the museum of Jamaican music will soon be established there, if everything goes according to plan. She also stated that her ministry has recently received equipment to digitise the entire collection of the music. The minister with responsibility for entertainment said she is determined to have a joint relationship with all the cultural entities that have collections of the music. These include the JBC (Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation) archives, the National Library, the JCDC.

She congratulated Dermott Hussey on making his important collection available to the Music Museum. "This collection of records, films, and documents will be an invaluable part of the museum which is still in its embryonic stages," she declared.

St. Lucian library loses valuable electronic equipment in fire

AUTHOR: Stan Bishop
TITLE: Central Library Fire
SOURCE: The Voice
DATE: March 20, 2010
URL: http://www.thevoiceslu.com/local_news/2010/march/20_03_10/CENTRAL_LIBRARY_FIRE.htm

Abstract:
The author provides an account of the fire and the events leading to the Fire department's extinguishing the fire. The article also reports on what is believed to be the cause of the fire. The article also reports on the Director for the library's initial assessment of the impact of the fire for the library. The director in response, opines that the library has lost equipment and will remain close for some time until a full assessment is undertaken of the damage.


Excerpt:

Brenda Paul, director of Library Services,
also spoke to the media after being summoned
to the scene of the fire. She described the
timing of the fire as “unfortunate.”



“Right now, we are undertaking
some minor repairs on the library, although
we, in fact, need some major repairs,”
Paul said. “ So it is really unfortunate.
More than that, we have lost most of our resources in there: computers, television sets, a VCR.
I’m just hoping that we will be able
to get funding to replace those valuable resources.”

Paul added that at the time of the fire, the
library had been closed, following a decision
taken earlier in the day by staff due to a
water shortage at the institution. In the
interim, she added, the Central Library will
remain closed, as a detailed assessment of
the building’s electrical circuits needs
to be done.

Fire at Central Library in St. Lucia

AUTHOR: Carmy Joseph
TITLE: Fire At The Library
SOURCE: HTS Channel 4
DATE: [March 19, 2010]
URL: http://www.htsstlucia.com/2010_News/March/HTS_News_March_19th_2010.html#upd

Abstract:
The article reports on a fire at the Central Library in Castries, St. Lucia that was extinguished by the nation's Fire department. Causes of the fire and the details on how it was extinguished were recorded. The report also provides brief mention about the location of the library and an overview of its building.

Excerpt:

The call came in a little before 3PM – a fire inside the Central Library in Castries. Divisional Officer – Lambert Charles –says the Castries Fire Station responded with two units. When they got there they found the fire blazing behind a locked door. Charles says his men had to break the door down to gain entry into the room.

The fire was extinguished in 15 minutes. And already – officials have ascertained the cause of the blaze. The old wives tale of never throwing water on an electrical fire did not prove true in this instance. Charles says it was a combination of water and breathing apparatus that allowed his men to make quick work of the fire.

A Jamaican Ministry to relocate to new facilities, inclusive of new library space

Title: Foreign affairs' $450-m move
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date published: Wednesday, February 24, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/business/Foreign-affairs---450-m-move_7440468

Abstract:
Article reports on an initiative to relocate the Jamaican Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to new headquarters. The new location will be in a part of Kingston that is much cheaper, saving the Government millions of dollars. A part of the plan for the new facility is the construction of a library space.

Excerpt:

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will spend an initial $450 million to relocate its head office downtown in the next fiscal year.

The move is part of Government's cost-saving measure to relocate ministry's and agencies to cheaper offices downtown.

"The final cost of the building is still to be determined as the project is still at the preliminary stage. The initial estimate of the cost is $447 million," stated Wilton Dyer, public relations officer at the ministry. The amount includes the price of the land, initial geological assessments and architectural surveys and design; and tendering for local consultants. Of the total amount, the "Chinese government will offer $292 million as a grant" and the Jamaican government will finance the remainder. The new building will be on Port Royal Street downtown and will contain among other things: Conference rooms, training facilities, parking lots, lounges, canteen, a library, and holding area for children.

Letter to Newspaper calls for a Rex Nettleford museum at UWI

Author: Patrick A. Gallimore
Title: Rex Nettleford museum for UWI?
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Saturday, February 20, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100220/letters/letters5.html

Abstract:
This letter to the editor of the Jamaican Gleaner, calls for a museum to honour the late Rex Nettleford. The author gives his justification why a musuem and initiative of this nature is important.

Excerpt:

I THINK it would be a most befitting and beneficial tribute and symbol to the life and works of the late Prof Rex Nettleford if a museum in his honour were established by the University of the West Indies (UWI).

Such a museum could be placed at a suitable location on his beloved campus and become the permanent home and intellectual/cultural showpiece of Prof Nettleford's numerous speeches, interviews, books, photographs, awards, achievements, etc. This museum would serve to symbolically and meaningfully celebrate and showcase the life of one of Jamaica's and the Caribbean's greatest sons and would, in no small measure, help to motivate and instill a deeper sense of pride in persons of all ages and from all walks of life, particularly the youth.

A Call in Trinindad and Tobago for a Museum of Carnival Costumes

Author: Yvonne Webb
Title: South Queen calls for Carnival museum
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian
Date Published: 19 Feb 2010
URL: http://guardian.co.tt/news/general/2010/02/19/south-queen-calls-carnival-museum


Abstract:
The article reports on an interview with the reigning south Queen of Carnival Rosemarie Kuru-Jagessar. In that interview, Kuru-Jagessar suggests that there is a need for establishing a museum to display Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival costumes entered in the national Carnival costume competition.

Excerpt:

Reigning south Queen of Carnival Rosemarie Kuru-Jagessar is calling for the establishment of a Carnival museum to display costumes that were exhibited in the national competition. Kuru-Jagessar said in an interview yesterday that the majority of people only got a glimpse of these elaborate costumes during their short appearance during the competition stages. She said many of them were eliminated after the preliminary stage and never see the light of day again. Pointing out that a lot of money, time and thought, were invested in these costumes Kuru-Jagessar said it was almost a sin to discard them without people getting an opportunity to appreciate their real beauty and craft.

“I would like to see a Carnival museum where locals and tourists can see costumes, whether they win or not, on display long after Carnival.”

Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's new museum of Jamaican musical instruments

Title: New Look JCDC Unveiled
Source: Jamaica Information Service (JIS): KINGSTON
Date published: Friday, February 19, 2010
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/MYSC/html/20100219T090000-0500_22948_JIS_NEW_LOOK_JCDC_UNVEILED_TODAY.asp

Abstract:
Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) has a rebranding ceremony to celebrate its newly refurbished and renovated facilities. This article reports on that ceremony and some of the new changes and rebranding that the agency is experiencing. One such facility of interest that has been mentioned in the article's report is the JCDC's museum of traditional musical instruments and information on Jamaican traditional folk forms.


Excerpt:

In addition to a well appointed staff lounge, the JCDC offices have been refurbished to include a souvenir gift shop, and a museum of musical instruments and information on traditional folk forms.

The impressive Mallalieu's Car museum in Barbados

Author: BARRY ALLEYNE
Title: Mallalieu's hot wheels
Source: Barbados Nation News
Date published on: January 31, 2010
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/news/local/car-museum-feature-copy-for-web

Abstract:
The article reports on a vintage car museum in Barbados. The article also entails information about how the museum began, its collection, the curator, and the types of visitors that are attracted to the museum.

Excerpt:

WHEN BILL MALLALIEU was a little boy, he loved playing with little toy cars.

Now that he's a big man, Mallalieu plays with big toy cars.

The result of his love affair with wheels, engines and motoring history is Barbados' lone old car museum.

But in fact, the Mallalieu Auto Collection is more than a place where locals, visitors, even primary school children can take a peek at some of the greatest vehicles ever assembled on the planet.

In the 40-foot car room at the collection's Pavilion Court, Hastings, Christ Church site there is also a sense of history that could blow even non-car-lovers away.

Trinidad and Tobago celebrates its oil industry, steel pan and jewellery

Title: National Museum shows Oil, Steel, Style
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian
Date published: February 12, 2010
Photographs by: Andre Alexander
URL: http://guardian.co.tt/multimedia/flash/national-museum-shows-oil-steel-style

Abstract:
An exhibition entitled ‘Oil, Steel, Style,’ opens in Port-of-Spain in Trinidad and Tobago at the National Museum and Art Gallery. This exhibition features a collection of "steelpan inspired jewellery" by Liz Mannette. It also commemorates the Steel Pan and Trinidad and Tobago's Oil industry. Information about the exhibition is provided along with photographs.

Excerpt:

According to Val Lewis, curator, [of] [t]he National Museum Services, it is a fitting tribute to the steelpan (from the early oil drum) and to the jewellery it has inspired.

Visitors to the exhibition will be treated to an assortment of about 100 pieces featuring all the various instruments that consist of the family of pans.

‘Oil, Steel, Style,’ which is also in commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the production of oil in T&T, will run at the National Museum until February 15.

Trinidad and Tobao launches QP Oval Cricket Heritage Museum

Author: KERN RAMLOCHAN
Title: QP Oval Cricket Heritage Museum a tourism ‘gem’
Source: Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday
Date published: Saturday, January 16 2010
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/sport/0,114281.html

Abstract:
The article reports on the official launch of the Queen Park's Oval Cricket Heritage Museum. It provides information about the collection and the information that the Cricket Museum houses.

Also, the article reports on some of the objects that the museum houses that have potential value for attracting visitors. In addition, the funding and support from the Ministry of Sport in Trinidad and Tobago is mentioned. Plans for future expansion and development of the museum are also discussed in the article

Expectations, hopes and aspirations for the museum to attract tourists are also expressed by the Minister of Tourism. Statements also reveal the target market segments for the museum. Also mentioned are the fees charged for museum tours.


Excerpt:

QUEEN’S Park Cricket Club has officially launched The Oval Cricket Heritage Museum at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port-of-Spain.

The Cricket Heritage Museum contains invaluable historical documents charting the progress of the Queen’s Park Cricket Club from their humble beginnings in 1891 when it was known as the “Sovereign” Cricket Club as well as West Indian cricket.

Thus far the Ministry of Sport has injected $300,000 to finance the museum as well as train the tour and site guides and produce tour manuals.

New Cricket Museum now open in Trinidad and Tobago

Author: Nicholas Clarke
Title: New cricket museum opens at Oval
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian
Date Published: 20 Jan 2010
URL:http://guardian.co.tt/news/cricket/2010/01/20/new-cricket-museum-opens-oval

Abstract:
The article reports on the new Cricket Heritage Museum opened to the public in Trinidad and Tobago. Its mission and the persons/organisations responsible for its maintenance, funding and management are mentioned. Rates and fees for the museum, as well as the scope of its collection are highlighted in the article.

Excerpt:

"The Queen’s Park Oval’s Cricket Heritage Museum was opened to the public at the Brian Lara Pavilion on Tragarete Road, Port-of-Spain recently. It had been officially launched on November 25th.

The museum is a collaborative effort between the Queen’s Park Cricket Club and the Ministry of Tourism, which pledged $300,000 towards the project. It showcases the history of cricket in T&T and in the West Indies from the early 20th century, with special attention to the events that took place at the Queen’s Park Oval."

Trinidad and Tobago's National Museum to be relocated

Author: Lara Pickford-Gordon
Title: National Museum moves to Knowsley
Source: Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday
Date Published: Saturday, January 30 2010
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,115008.html

Abstract:
The article reports on the plans to relocate the National Museum of Trinidad and Tobago to a refurbished historical building. The rationale behind the relocation is also mentioned.

Excerpt:

“the rationale is to have all the cultural centres located together in the same vicinity so you have the National Academy for Performing Arts. Then you’ll have the museum, and then the administrative buildings related to culture and the National Cultural Centre which is also planned.”

...the move to the new space will be an impetus for the museum which has been in the same location for several years...the relocation to Knowsley will bring new life to the museum.

Barbadian School gets new mobile library, institutionalises reading

Author: MICHELLE SPRINGER
Title: Reading - food for thought
Source: Barbadian Nation News
Date Published on: January 26, 2010
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/news/local/new-library-for-George-Lamming-School-copy-for-web

Abstract:
The article reports on the visit of a Barbadian author to pupils of the George Lamming Primary School, which was named in his honour. The students received the visit from the writer George Lamming, who was there to open and formally launch the mobile library. Excerpts of the speech that he gave encouraging the habit of reading is recorded in the article.

Plans to instutionalise the habit of reading in the school are also mentioned, including the production of a school magazine to be written and edited by students.

Finally, Lamming pledges to donate 700 books to the school library. The delight of the Principal at this new library is also expressed.


Excerpt:

Senior teacher at the school, Anthony Coward, said it was hoped that out of a centralised culture of reading the school would produce a magazine of poetry and prose, which would be written and edited by the students.

Lamming concluded his opening remarks by telling pupils that he would assist the school in providing 700 books to the library, the same number as the school's enrolment.

Principal Barbara Grant described the new library as "a long cherished dream".

A Barbadian political party blamed for National library's neglect

Author: (TY)
Title: BLP blamed for library's neglect
Source: Barbadian Nation News
Date Published on: February 3, 2010
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/story/HOUSE--Todd-knocks-Eastmond-copy-for-web


Abstract:
In a debate in Parliament over the Archives (Amendment) Bill 2010, the opposition's political party was criticised for its neglect of the National Library of Barbados, that lead to poor working conditions and the exposure of library materials and publications to harm ad possible devastation. The article also reports on the view expressed by a Member of Parliament about the value of the National Library to the nation.

Excerpt:

"I would hope that the original free library in Coleridge Street can be cleaned and put back to perfection because it is part of our culture.

"It brings nostalgia to a lot of us who used to go in there and we have to get the type of expertise that can restore that free library to its former glory."

Indian High Commission proposes Gandhi section at National Library in Port-of-Spain

Author: Paras Ramoutar

Title: T&T observes Gandhi’s death anniversary

Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian

Date published: 31 Jan 2010

URL: http://guardian.co.tt/news/general/2010/01/31/tt-observes-gandhi-s-death-anniversary

Abstract:
The article reports on some of the cultural activities, tributes and memorials in Trinidad and Tobago in recognition of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. The report also entails outlines of a proposal by the Indian High Commission in the twin island republic, to establish a section at the National Library. This proposed section will feature collections on Gandhi supplied and financed by the Indian High Commission.


Excerpt:

"The Indian High Commission has proposed that a Gandhi section be established at the National Library in Port-of-Spain. “The High Commission is willing to provide additional books, documentaries, papers to enrichen the library on the works, philosophy and writings of Gandhi,” according to Indian High Commissioner Shri Malay Mishra at the presentation of more than 100 books to Minister of Information Neil Parsanlal, yesterday, at the National Library."

Jamaican copyright violations robbing authors and publishers

Author: HG HELPS Editor-at-Large Investigative Coverage Unit icu AT jamaicaobserver.com

Title: Copy cats robbing book industry: Authors, publishers losing millions to people who photocopy material

Source: Jamaica Observer

Date published: Sunday, January 31, 2010

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Book-industry


Abstract:
This article reports on perceptions of the status of copyright infringements in Jamaica. The effect of the infringements on Jamaican publishing industry is also mentioned, with a number of publishers and members of the book industry giving their perspective on the matter.

The Jamaican copyright law is also discussed while juxtaposed with the journalist's report on blatant infringements and violations of the law. The main perpetrators of the wholesale photocopying of books are said to be within the education sector. Also discussed are the initiatives to prevent against copyright as well as the lack of action taken to curb the violations. Reasons for the violations are also given.

Excerpt:

"It is estimated that thousands of students engage in the activity, although many of them are not aware of the dangers involved and the possible consequences.

But photocopying of copyrighted material has become commonplace in the Jamaican education sector, moreso at the tertiary level, leaving those who produce and distribute the material financially battered and defeated

Authors of books and those who publish the material are particularly and directly affected, as they estimate that hundreds of millions of dollars, which would normally have landed in their bank accounts, are instead fattening the pockets of education pirates in many instances.

Jamaica Music Museum Update: Controversial but contemporary collection

Author: Mel Cooke
Title: Non-exclusionary approach taken to museum, Dermott Hussey donates entire collection
Date Published: Sunday | January 17, 2010

http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100117/ent/ent7.html


Abstract:

The article reports on some of the comments made by the curator, and Jamaica Music Museum director, Herbie Miller during a tour of the Jamaica Music Museum exhibition. Miller shares in this article's report the mission of the museum and how controversial some of its collections and items are. The article reports on some of the items that were donated to the music museum and its donors. It also documents some of the comments and reactions made by visitors to the museum.


Excerpt:

The last and latest Jamaican music genre in the mini-exhibition on Jamaican music is dancehall. It is written that "perhaps the most controversial and polarising genre of Jamaican music, dancehall, currently dominates the island's musical landscape".

While walking through with The Sunday Gleaner, Jamaica Music Museum director Herbie Miller said, "that's why a museum is so important. We are not just looking at the past. We are looking at the present and the future." At this dancehall stop, he points out to The Sunday Gleaner that many people did not like ska, which is now considered classic. Similarly, many people did not like reggae, which is now called the golden age of Jamaican music.

"Our duty as a museum is to collect it all, whether we like it or not. Let future scholars look at it and figure out what it means. Who knows? The world may develop in a way that what is seen as negative now will be seen as positive," Miller said, singing a few lines from Cole Porter's Anything Goes.

CHASE spends $21.5 million upgrading Jamaican libraries & archives

Author: KARYL WALKER Crime/Court Desk co-ordinator walkerk AT jamaicaobserver.com
Title: CHASE spends $21.5 million upgrading libraries, archives
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2009

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/160696_CHASE-spends--21-5-million-upgrading-libraries--archives

Abstract:
This article reports on a number initiatives funded by the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund. The funds disbursed for 2009 amounted to $21.5 million for projects such as the upgrading of some 11 libraries and archives. Special mention is made of a project to digitise the historical of the former prime minister Edward Seaga. A brief report is also made of the digitization of some of the audio visual tapes of the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation. Future plans to fund a project of digitization at the Institute of Jamaica is also mentioned.


Excerpt:

Digitisation of the historical records of former prime minister Edward Seaga.

Heaven said the fund was working on digitalising the records of not only Seaga, but would bring the entire library and archive system into the modern era.

He said the former state-owned Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation has recorded on outdated audio visual tapes important historical events which needed to be modernised in order to preserve the nation's history for generations to come.

"We are currently at the Institute of Jamaica updating their archives to make it current. You will also be able to see Mr Seaga's first budget presentation which was on a yellow sheet of paper. These will be accessible to not just the university but the entire population," Heaven said.

Plans for parish museum in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica

Author: MARK CUMMINGS, Observer West senior reporter, cummingsm AT jamaicaobserver.com
Title: Black River Mayor raps sluggish local government reform
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date: Thursday, January 07, 2010
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/westernnews/Palmer-disappointed-7-01-10--PROOFED---3-_7294601

Abstract:
In this article, the Mayor of Black River, Jeremy Palmer, expresses disappointment with regards to how long the local government reform process is taking to effect planned programmes. His plans for Black River are outlined. One such plan includes the establishment of a local parish museum to feature the local history and culture of the parish. Plans for the funding of this initiative have been identified.

Excerpt:

Palmer said the council is working assiduously to establish a museum in the town of Black River next year.

" What we want to do is to set up a history museum which will have much of the culture and all of those things that are pertinent to the parish," he explained. "We have already identified a building and we have done a project document which has been submitted to TPDCo (Tourism Product Development Company) who are working with us to establish it," he added.

Jamaica Music Museum update

Author: Mel Cooke
Title:Jamaica Music Museum - a sample of what can be
Date Published: Sunday, January 17, 2010
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100117/ent/ent1.html

Abstract
Article reports on the state of the Jamaica Music Museum. Its mission is described. According to its main curator, the museum will contain sections that will chronicle the technological changes in instrument construction and music production and the changes in Jamaican music genres (thereby containing information on Jamaica's social history, technology and specifically about music history.


Excerpt

Herbie Miller stands near the middle of Jamaica's musical chronology in words, images and artefacts along the side of a partition at the Institute of Jamaica, downtown Kingston, and said "I like to call this our 22 yards of Jamaican music history."

That distance is, of course, the length of a cricket pitch, and the sport has its own rhythm. But the director of the Jamaica Music Museum is referring to another kind of rhythm, the music that is woven into the tapestry of Jamaican life.

Access to Jamaican business information improved in 2009

Author: Kadian Brown
Title: Priority on Strengthening MSME Sector
Source: JIS Bulletin Board 2009 Year in Review
Date Published: January 11, 2010
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/BulletinBoard/Bulletin-Jan-11-2010.pdf

Abstract:
This article looks back at some of the initiatives taken by the Jamaican government's Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce in 2009 to strengthen the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector, entrepreneurship, investment and commerce.

In particular, two of these initiatives involved establishing information centres throughout the island to provide better access to business information. These were the estbalishment of Export Centres/Business Information Points (ECBIP) and Jamaica
Business Information Centres (JAMBIC).

Excerpt:

The Ministry through the designated agencies, launched Export Centres/ Business Information Points (ECBIP) throughout the island. A partnership involving
the Jamaica Exporters’ Association (JEA), the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and Jamaica Trade and Invest (JTI), this project aims to positively impact national export performance and competitiveness, while providing
standardised business information.


To further boost business development and entrepreneurship, the JBDC opened Jamaica
Business Information Centres (JAMBIC) at the Small Business Association of
Jamaica (SBAJ) in Kingston; Northern Caribbean University in Manchester; Royal Mall in Port Antonio, Portland; and St. Ann Chamber of Commerce in Ocho Rios, St. Ann.

Haiti's National Library Withstands Earthquake

Author/From: Francoise Thybulle
Title/Subject: Re: [CDNL-L] Haiti
Date: Friday, January 15, 2010 4:05 pm
URL: http://d.yimg.com/kq/groups/15534696/853134108/name/untitled-


Abstract:

From an email discussion group, news have been received from the Director General of the National Library of Haiti, Françoise Beaulieu-Thybulle. Beaulieu-Thybulle declares that the library is still erect with dislocation of holdings and shelves. However the building is miraculously the only one erect in the area. The Director however reports on efforts to find out about employees to the Library to determine if all workers are alive.

Excerpt:

the building of the National library is safe,the shelves and holdings have shifted...we will prevail ... our building is the only one standing in the whole area...

I have not yet been able to locate all the personel,1/2 of them are safe we keep on checking


Françoise Beaulieu-Thybulle (MLIS)
Bibliothèque Nationale D’Haïti
Conservateur/Directeur Général
193, RUE DU CENTRE, PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI
Tél.:2221-2086

Jamaican School holds Read-A-Thon: Parents encouraged to read to toddlers

Title: Parents Urged to Develop Children's Reading Skills
Source: MANDEVILLE, Jamaica Information Service (JIS)
Date published: Friday, December 31, 2010
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/education/html/20091231T190000-0500_22394_JIS_PARENTS_URGED_TO_DEVELOP_CHILDREN_S_READING_SKILLS.asp


Abstract

A Jamaican school, Green Park Primary and Junior High School in Sandy Bay, Clarendon, held a Read-A-Thon and Spell-A-Thon. The competition culminated with an awards ceremony where participants received certificates and the top performers received trophies. The article also gives a synopsis on a speech delivered by an educator, Dr. Jean Beaumont, who urges Jamaican Parents to play their active role in development of their children’s literacy skills. Beaumont advocates that Jamaican parents read to their children before school age and get them interested from early in words and letter recognition. This Beaumont declares will serve as the foundation of academic success in adulthood.


Excerpt:

Educator, Dr. Jean Beaumont, is imploring parents to work with their children to develop their reading skills.

The awards ceremony was held to recognise the 40 students, who participated in the school's Read-A-Thon and Spell-A-Thon competitions.

Certificates were presented to all the participants, with the top three finishers in each segment also awarded medals and trophies for outstanding performance.