Jamaican Teacher-librarian wins award for mastering course management software

Author:   BY RACQUEL PORTER, Career & Education writer porterr@jamaicaobserver.com
Title: 'Alpha' teacher wins tech prize
Date published:  April 20, 2015
Source: Jamaica Observer
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/career/-Alpha--teacher-wins-tech-prize_18776446

Abstract:
The article announces the winner of an award for mastering a course management software named RenWeb. The winner is a teacher-librarian named Hopplin Thompson. Details about the RenWeb software that Thompson mastered and its capabilities are presented. Also mentioned is the company behind the system. Names of the runners-up are also mentioned in the article.

Excerpt:

TEACHER-LIBRARIAN at Convent of Mercy Academy 'Alpha' Hopplin Thompson is the winner of this year's Zed-Makeyla Technology Award for creative use of the classroom management software, RenWeb.

A teacher-librarian is a certified teacher who also has training in librarianship. Hopplin, who received the award at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel on Thursday, beat out a field of 19 to win the top prize.

Jamaica Library Service gets new Director General

Title: Karen Barton appointed new director general of Jamaica Library Service
Date published: November 10, 2014
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=56517

Abstract:
This brief article announces the appointment of Karen Barton as the new Director General of Jamaica Library Service. It further outlines some of her qualifications and experience that she brings to the position as well as provides some background information on the Jamaica Library Service.

Excerpt:

The University of the West Indies graduate has more than 30 years experience in the Jamaica Library Service.  

She has written several papers on librarianship in Jamaica. 

The Jamaica Library Service has responsibility for 124 public libraries and 926 school libraries throughout the island.

Antigua's National Public Library reopens

Author: Kadeem Joseph
Title: Library opens again
Date published: September 1, 2014  
Source: The Daily Observer Ltd.
URL: http://antiguaobserver.com/library-opens-again/



Abstract:
The article announces the reopening of the National Public Library of Antigua. The Director of the Public Library, Ryllis Mannix, is further reported as indicating that while the library is opened for access to books for research purposes, the library operations are being hampered by inoperable computers systems to support the circulation process. The article also reports Mannix as outlining some of the other challenges that the library faced in getting ready for reopening. The article further provides information pertaining to the new facility and the services that the library offers, as well as it opening hours.






Excerpt:
After waiting decades, the public can now access the National Public Library, which will be officially opened today, albeit limitedly.


Director of the Public Library Ryllis Mannix told OBSERVER media while the library will not be “100 percent operational,” the public would be able to, at least, access books for research purposes.
Since the automated borrow-and-return system is not yet working, Mannix said her team is working towards creating a manual record keeping process, in order to enable loaning of books to the public.
Library officials are hoping to establish a manual record keeping process, in lieu of the computer system, which they hope will be functional as early as today.


The 70 to 80 computer systems for public use are still not operational, however, the library chief said technicians are working to address these issues soonest.

Death of Chief Librarian of the Guyana National Library

Author: Michel Outridge

Title: Chief Librarian Gillian Thompson dies in road accident
Source: Guyana Chronicle Online
Date published: Dec 24, 2013

URL: http://guyanachronicle.com/chief-librarian-gillian-thompson-dies-in-road-accident/

Abstract:

The news article reports on the death of Gillian Thompson, the Chief Librarian of the Guyana National Library. Outlined are some details about the circumstances leading to her death. Biographical details are also reported about her life. The reporter also captures the emotions of a staff member of the National library, Margaret Eastman, Coordinator of External Activities. Also reported is the statement released by the Ministry of Education offering condolences to the family as well as providing further biographical details about Gillian Thompson. 

Excerpt:

Thompson served as Chief Librarian for the past nine years after pursuing post-graduate studies in Library Science at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus.
Many staff members bemoaned the loss of a person who they considered to be “a good boss.”Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

 Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education expressed sincere condolences to the family, friends and staff of the National Library, on the passing of Ms. Thompson.

 The Ministry in a release said Thompson worked at the National Library for just over two decades, beginning on November 1, 1991. In 2004 she became the Chief Librarian and worked tirelessly until her untimely passing on December 24, 2013.

 “A consummate professional who dedicated her time, energy, and professional training in library science towards the advancement of reading in Guyana, Gillian would be dearly missed not only by her family, but by her colleagues and friends at the National Library and those from within the education fraternity,” the Ministry said adding: “May her soul Rest In Peace!.”

Caribbean librarian honoured for contribution to literacy

Title: Library recognises literacy and financial contributors
Date published: Thursday, 21 November 2013
Source: The Daily Herald
URL: http://thedailyherald.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=44251:library-recognises-literacy-and-financial-contributors-&catid=1:islands-news&Itemid=54

Abstract:
The article reports on what appears to be Philipsburg Jubilee Library's 90th anniversary celebrations awards ceremony. At this event, retired Caribbean librarian, Blanca Hodge, was honoured for her leadership at Philipsburg Jubilee Library and contribution to literacy. Others awarded at the event included supporters and regular users of the library including St. Maarten Museum Director Elsje Bosch.

Library Director, Monique Alberts is reported as providing attendees at the awards ceremony with a brief history of the library from its opening on November 23, 1923 to the present. The article also reports the name of other important invitees in attendance.

Excerpt:

PHILIPSBURG--Retired Philipsburg Jubilee Library head Blanca Hodge, who made the library's slogan "Reading is FUNdemental" popular, has proven that literacy is a family concern. She and her grandson Yshmael Marcelle were honoured by the library on Thursday evening for their commitment to literacy.

They were among several awardees at the recognition ceremony that kicked started the library's 90th anniversary celebrations.

Hodge, represented by her daughter Moira Marcelle-Hodge, received the 2013 President's Award. She was selected by Library President Chantal Schaminee-Ringeling for her "unflinching commitment to literacy" in St. Maarten and the wider Caribbean. Hodge made the library more than a place to read books and helped to develop the library from its humble beginnings on Back Street to the larger building it occupies now, Schaminee-Ringeling said.

Dr. Joyce Robinson remembered

Author: Desmond Allen
Title: Dr Joyce Robinson — 'a Rock of Gibraltar in times of emotional stress'
Date: Thursday, May 16, 2013

Source: Jamaica Observer

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Dr-Joyce-Robinson----a-Rock-of-Gibraltar-in-times-of-emotional-stress-_14276620

Abstract:

This article reports on various tributes being offered to Dr. Joyce Robinson. In particular, remarks from the Opposition Leader and leader of the Jamaican Labour Party, Andrew Holness is reported. Also reported is remarks from the current President of  the Library and Information Association of Jamaica (LIAJA), Matthew Blake and Dr Hazel Bennett, a close friend and retired senior lecture of the library school  at the University of the West Indies. From these tributes, the life and contribution of Dr. Joyce Robinson is reflected, especially her work as a librarian and her foundational work in developing libraries in Jamaica, including the establishment of the public library, the library association, national library system and  library school.

Excerpt:

Joyce Robinson was a founding member of the Jamaica Library Association, the forerunner of LIAJA, and served the Association in several capacities including that of president on two occasions — 1964 and 1973. In 1992 she was elected honorary member of the Association in recognition of her contribution to the growth and development of the profession and to the courageous leadership she gave in promoting the value of library services to national development.

"Joyce Robinson will be remembered specifically for her role in the development of the Jamaica Library Service from 1950-1973, the last 16 years as director and the first Jamaican to hold this position. Equally important was her role in advocating for the establishment of a library school on the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies, as well as her role as a founding member of the National Council on Libraries, Archives and Documentation Services (NACOLADS). For this she served as the chairman from 1980-1990 and was instrumental in the establishment of the National Library of Jamaica, which she served as the first board chairman from 1979 to 1996.

Tribute to Jamaican librarian Dr. Joyce Robinson from the Jamaican Observer

Title: Dr Joyce Robinson, a true human treasure
Date: May 14, 2013
Source: Jamaica Observer
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/Dr-Joyce-Robinson--a-true-human-treasure_14261663

Abstract:
This editorial reports on the death of Jamaican librarian Dr. Joyce Robinson and provides a tribute on her accomplishments and work in her service to her country. Brief mentioned is her foundational role in establishing the Jamaican Library service.

Excerpt:

"From a volunteer on a library committee in Black River, she was one of the women and men who worked to establish a full-fledged library service in 1948 and fittingly became its first Jamaican head in 1957." 

Jamaican PM honours deceased librarian Dr. Joyce Robinson

Author: OPM Communications Unit

Title: PM Hails Dr. Joyce Robinson as a Strong, Determined Woman
Date: MONDAY, 13 MAY 2013
Source: JIS
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/leads/33854


Abstract:
The article reports on the tribute offered by Jamaican Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller at the passing of Dr. the Hon. Joyce Robinson, a Jamaican librarian. The article briefly mentions in passing her contribution to Jamaican libraries.

Excerpt:

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller has expressed deep sadness at the passing of Dr. the Hon. Joyce Robinson, who died on Sunday, May 12.

In paying tribute, the Prime Minister said that in the many different areas in which she served, Dr. Joyce Robinson was a pioneering, truly outstanding and highly accomplished Jamaican woman who dedicated her life to public service.

As the first Jamaican to head the National Library Service, Dr. Robinson played an invaluable role in the vibrant development of the Service between 1957 and 1979.

Former Jamaican Librarian and champion of national literacy dies

Title: Dr Leila Thomas, lady of the literacy lamp, has died

Author: BY DESMOND ALLEN Executive Editor — Operations allend [at]jamaicaobserver.com

Date Published: Wednesday, January 05, 2011

Source: Jamaica Observer

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Dr-Leila-Thomas--lady-of-the-literacy-lamp--has-died_8270525

Abstract:
Article reports on the passing of an icon in the development of Jamaica's public library services and also a national advocate for the development and advancement of literacy in Jamaica. The article feature mentions of other important Jamaican librarians, the career of Dr. Robinson, the circumstances of her death and some of her legacy in the development of the nation both as a librarian and as the head of the national organisation that promoted literacy in Jamaica.

Excerpt:

Thomas, one of the women most responsible for the growth in the literacy movement in Jamaica, was a former head of the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) and the Jamaica Movement for the Advancement of Literacy (JAMAL) Foundation.

Her impressive career in adult and literacy education in Jamaica spanned almost 70 years -- 25 of which were devoted primarily to librarianship, including seven years heading the Jamaica Library Service from 1975 to 1982.

She was part of a formidable quartet of women, led by Dr Joyce Robinson, who in the late 1950s established the foundation for the modern Jamaica Library Service which she joined as an untrained librarian and rose to become its head. The others were Dr Hazel Bennett and Gloria Salmon.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Dr-Leila-Thomas--lady-of-the-literacy-lamp--has-died_8270525#ixzz1AB39e3Z5

Trinidad and Tobago's Carnegie Library — a proud legacy

Author: Aruna Harbaran
Title: Carnegie Library — a proud legacy
Date Published: 23 October 2009
URL: http://guardian.co.tt/commentary/letters/2009/10/23/carnegie-library-proud-legacy

Abstract:

A letter sent to the paper by a librarian discussing the age of the Carnegie library, its mission, and how it has been serving the society.

Excerpt:

Carnegie Free Library is 90 years old (1919-2009) and still going strong. What an incredible achievement! During this time it has served to fill more than the information needs of the southern community.

Outstanding Jamaican Library and Information Professional to be honoured

Title: Dr Joyce Robinson new Pineapple Ball honoree
Source: Gleaner
Date: Friday, September 26, 2008
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20080926/social/social4.html


ABSTRACT:

The article covers briefly the employment history of the library and information professional, Dr. Joyce Robinson, while announcing the news about her selection for the Pineapple Ball award.

COMMENTS:
This is a remarkable library and information professional that has contributed a lot to the education and development of Jamaica's human resource potential.

She has played a role in Jamaica's public library service, Jamaica's state owned and first television station, the development of an organisation to advance literacy in Jamaica and finally, in the vocational training of those persons who, for one reason or another, do not pursue further academic studies and research.

So fully involve was this professional in advancing Jamaicans' access to information and opportunities for personal and professional development, that her example alone should inspire others in the profession of their calling.