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!.”

Georgetown School of Nursing to get 'virtual' library

Author: Anthony Layne  
Title: Health sector skills capacity boosted as 91 medical personnel complete training programme
Source: Guyana Chronicle
Date published: 5 December 2012

URL: http://www.guyanachronicle.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=52578:health-sector-skills-capacity-boosted-as-91-medical-personnel-complete-training-programme&catid=2:news&Itemid=3

Abstract:
This article reports on a speech made by the Guyanese Health Minister Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, delivered at the graduation of clinical and technical trainees at the National Cultural Centre. In that speech, the Minister announces plans to have the Georgetown School of Nursing upgrade its library to a virtual one with the installation of computers and Wireless Internet. In addition, the library will be expanded to accommodate more persons.

Excerpt:

"Georgetown School of Nursing—at the centre of controversy in recent times—will soon have its library upgraded to a virtual library with the installation of computers and hot spot. Further,the school’s resource centre will be expanded  and so will the classrooms to alleviate the cramped conditions."

National Library of Guyana turns 103 years old

Title:  National Library is 103 years old
Source: Stabroek
Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2012
URL: http://www.stabroeknews.com/2012/news/stories/09/18/national-library-is-103-years-old/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+stabroeknewsguyana+%28Stabroek+News%29


Abstract:
This article features the history of the Guyana National Library. Mentioned in the article are important milestones in how the library came into being, including key historical persons behind the library's existence.

Excerpt:
 After over a century of dedicated service to the Guyanese populace, the Guyana National Library has achieved another significant milestone, celebrating its 103rd birthday on September 9 last.
Although founded in 1909, the groundwork for the establishment of the then Carnegie Free Library actually began in 1907, after entrepreneur Andrew Carnegie provided a grant of £7,000 towards its construction. After several name changes along the years, in 1972, the Library Ordinance was amended which resulted in yet another name change from the Public Library to the National Library. The library now had dual responsibility for National and Library Services.

Disapperance of 1985-1992 parliamentary records in Guyana

Title: Disappearance of parliamentary records not deliberate -Ramkarran
Source: Stabroek
Date: Sunday, August 26, 2012
URL:  http://www.stabroeknews.com/2012/news/stories/08/26/disappearance-of-parliamentary-records-not-deliberate/

Abstract:
This article makes the revelation that transcripts recording Guyana's parliamentary activities and proceedings for the period of 1985 to 1992 are missing.  Featured in the article is the former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran confirming the missing records, but denying that the gap is intentional.

Excerpt:

Former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran has acknowledged gaps in the parliamentary records but dismisses any assertions that their disappearance is deliberate, saying that it was under his stewardship that programmes commenced to bring the records up to date.

This follows revelations from Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs and his predecessor Frank Narain as to what might have happened to transcripts for the period 1985 to 1992.

National Library of Guyana launches commemorative stamp

Author: Michelle Gonsalves

Title: National Library launches commemorative stamp

Source: Guyana Chronicle

Date: December 16, 2009

URL: http://www.guyanachronicle.com/ARCHIVES/archive%2016-12-09.html#Anchor-----------------47912

Abstract:
Article reports on the launch of a special commemorative stamp by the National Library of Guyana as part of its centennial celebrations. It is done in collaboration with the the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC). A description of the stamp is given, and the purpose for the launch of this stamp is expressed.

Essentially, the launch is a public relations or marketing exercise for National library. The hopes and aspirations for the stamp is to serve a means of stimulating people to know and want to know more about the institution.

The article also provides insight into the mission of the National Library of Guyana. Chairman of the National Library Committee Mr. Petamber Persaud, also recounts in brief, a part of the history and origin of the library.



Excerpt:

"The National Library continued its centennial celebrations with the launching of a special commemorative stamp yesterday, at its Church and Main Street, Georgetown, location.

Commemorative Stamp on display yesterday at the National Library.

Addressing attendees at the event, Post Master General Mr. Henry Dundas stated, “Documentation of such information on a stamp no doubt translates into informing persons throughout the world of our National Library and the fact that it has been in existence for a century now”.

Other attendees at the special occasion included Chairman of the National Library Committee Mr. Petamber Persaud, Chief Librarian Ms. Gillian Thompson, and Governor of the Bank of Guyana Mr. Lawrence Williams."

Guyana plans to establish a Peace Resource centre with library

Title: Olympic-sized pool, squash court on stream next year

Source: The Guyana Chronicle Online

Date: December 20, 2009

URL: http://www.guyanachronicle.com/news.html


Abstract:
The article reports on the plans of the Guyanese Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports to expand its infrastructure in 2010. Among the new facilities included in the plan are an Olympic-sized pool, two Squash Courts and a Peace Resource Centre with conferences facilities and a library.

Funding for the establishment of the resource centre and its library will come from the United Nations Development Fund. The article also mentions that library materials have already been procured.


Relevant Excerpt:
"In addition, plans are afoot to set up a Peace Resource Centre with funding from the United Nations Development Fund.

The building will house a cafeteria that will service the entire complex and two conferencing facilities along with an extensive library. Some of the materials for the library have already been procured."

Evaluation:
The article only briefly reports on the establishment of the library in two sentences. This is perhaps indicative of the low value that Caribbean media places on libraries versus sporting facilities, which gets predominant coverage in the article.

No word is mention about staffing in terms of employing a librarian. Materials have been procured, but one wonders who procured them, and what collection development policy was set up for this library. One also wonders if this library was planned any at all, with consideration of the would be users of the the facility or service.

Guyana's President tours National Library of Guyana

Title: President tours National Library during centenary anniversary

Source: Government of the Republic of Guyana: Office of the Prime Minister

Date Published: Thursday, 20 August 2009


URL: http://opnew.op.gov.gy/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=677:president-tours-national-library-during-centenary-anniversary&catid=34:bulletins&Itemid=70

Abstract:

The article reports on the President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo's visit to the National Library of Guyana. This visit was a part of the celebration of the library’s centenary anniversary. The article reports some of the activities of the President during the visit, including his giving his own ideas for improving the work of the library and promoting interest in Caribbean literature.

The article also reports on a brief history of the National Library of Guyana as well as the activities that are currently a part of the centenary anniversary celebrations.


Excerpt:

The Guyana National Library is celebrating 100 years of existence this year with a calendar of organised activities that included a visit by President Bharrat Jagdeo...

The President’s visit was not part of the calendar of activities but was welcomed anyway and brought smiles to the faces of the Library’s staff who were elated to provide him with a tour of the facility.

Accompanied by Chairman of the National Library Committee Pitamber Persaud, Personnel Officer Annis Craig and Jillian Thompson, the Head of State inspected and met staff of the building’s various departments.

National Library of Guyana's readers competition finals

Author: Vanessa Narine

Title: 62 in National Library’s readers competition finals

Source: Guyana Chronicle Online

Date Published: Monday, 10 August 2009

URL: http://guyanachronicleonline.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4568:62-in-national-librarys-readers-competition-finals&catid=2:news&Itemid=3#Scene_1

Abstract:

The article reports on the National Library of Guyana's reading competition. According to the article, a total of 62 individuals, teenagers and young adults, competed in the finals of the National Library’s Champion Readers Competition. Some of these participants speak about their experiences in the competition and the personal gains that resulted from competing in the programme. Among the gains of participation in the competition is the new exposure that it gave participants to books and the world of literature.

The perspective of the judges is also represented, giving another perspective as to expected or intended outcomes of the competition. Also captured is background information about the event, including the theme of the competition, the dates of the competition, its prizes and the age range of competitors.

The library's perspective is also covered, as more than one library personnel suggest goals of the programme. One of the primary goals that Ms. Jillian Thompson (the Chief librarian) pointed out is that the competition aims to promote literacy in Guyana. Other goals are also stated.


Excerpt:

A total of 62 individuals, teenagers and young adults, competed in the finals of the National Library’s Champion Readers Competition, Friday, an experience they lauded as one that helped them to look with new eyes at books and the world of literature.


The competition is one of the many events of the National Library’s centenary celebrations, held under the theme ‘Empowering the Nation through literacy’.

Chief Librarian Ms. Jillian Thompson pointed out that the promotion of literacy in Guyana was primary in the list of objectives that the competition sought to achieve.


Among the other objectives of the Champion Readers’ Competition was the need to:


* Encourage reading as a stimulating past-time among children and young adults;


* Stimulate a thirst for information through the printed medium;


* Nurture a lifelong love for reading; and


* Develop reading and comprehension skills of participants.

Fire scare in University of Guyana's library

Title: Fire scare in UG library

Source: Stabroek News

Date: August 5, 2009

URL: http://www.stabroeknews.com/2009/news/local/08/05/fire-scare-in-ug-library/


Abstract:
The article reports on an unusual incident in the library of University of Guyana, where a bag of books burst into flames. Details about the incident are sparse, and no one is yet certain about the ownership of the bags of books.


Excerpt:

University of Guyana (UG) students were sent dashing from the institution’s 24-hour library last night after two bags of books mysteriously burst into flames on the second floor.

When Stabroek News visited the UG Library shortly after 9 pm, besides a small group of students gathered at the library entrance, things appeared normal. A few minutes later two fire hydrants appeared on the scene.

National Library looking to expand current services

Author: Narine, Vanessa
Title: National Library looking to expand current services
Source: Guyana Chronicle Online
Date Published: Thursday, 14 May 2009 13:58
URL:
http://guyanachronicleonline.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1547:national-library-looking-to-expand-current-services&catid=2:news&Itemid=3

Abstract:
The article reports on the current services offered by the National Library of Guyana which include photocopying, reference, music, bookmobile, prison outreach, inter-library loans, conference accommodation, Internet and telephone inquiries.
The article also reports on the library's plans for further expansion in service offerings, and in particularly, the expansion of the computer facilities.

Information is also given about the Library's celebration of its centenary with events including book exhibitions and school tours, a photographic display, and the Champion Reader Competition.

Additional information about the Children library services offered in the National Library is also given. In this report, the views of some of the children users are given, and the information provided reveals satisfaction with and the successful implementation of the library's children services and outreach.



Excerpt:

CHIEF Librarian Jillian Thompson has reminded that the National Library caters for all needs and ages and is looking to expand its services.

It presently provides photocopying, reference, music, bookmobile, prison outreach, inter-library loans, conference accommodation, Internet and telephone inquiries, apart from books lending.

Visits to the library produces Cardiac Surgery in Guyana

Author: Sharmain Cornette

Title: Defying the odds and providing high-quality cardiac service: Dr Gary Stephens is a ‘Special Person’

Source: Kaieteur News

Date Published: May 17, 2009

URL: http://www.kaieteurnews.com/2009/05/17/defying-the-odds-and-providing-high-quality-cardiac-service/

Abstract:
The article reports on the biographical story of Dr Gary Stephens, a cardiac surgeon, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the lone Cardiac facility in Guyana, the Caribbean Heart Institute (CHI). His successes are traced by the author to his childhood experiences at the public library, where a librarian and her story telling sessions motivated him to read. This love of reading that was inculcated in him by the librarian lead him to read a particular book, which fed his aspiration to become a doctor.

Excerpt:

His passion for being a doctor was motivated by his visits to the library as a young boy, a pastime he managed to balance with his love for athletics. He was in fact an outstanding athlete back in the days.

But according to Dr Stephens his motivation to visit the library was driven by the way the librarian would read.

“Those were the days when the Public Library in Linden had a storytelling time in the afternoons and on Saturdays. The librarian was so good that you would make the effort to go there and sit down and listen. The way the librarian read whatever book she had, it just encouraged you to want to read. She made me want to read…you just wanted to pick up a book and just enjoy it the same way she read it to you.”

Historical perspective of the National Library of Guyana

Author: Gwyneth George and Gillian Thompson

Title: Celebrating 100 years of public library service: a historical perspective of the National Library of Guyana

Source: Stabroek News

Date Published: May 14, 2009

URL: http://www.stabroeknews.com/2009/features/05/14/history-this-week-38/

Abstract:
The article provides information about the role and work of the National Library of Guyana, which also serves as the public library for Guyana. Also covered are some historical milestones and key developments in the role and work of the National Library as well as some of the challenges faced.



Excerpt

This is the second article in a two-part series that gives a historical perspective of the development of the Public Library Service in Guyana. The first installment looked at the emergence and development of the public library service in Guyana up to 1959. This article will discuss the rural library service, the library as a social and cultural entity, library education, the work of the Public/National Library service as embodied in the Act of 1972 and the challenges facing the National Library as it celebrates 100 years of service to the Guyanese community.

Guyana's National Library sponsors competition to rekindle love for reading

Title: National Library sponsors competition to rekindle love for reading
Date Published: April 23, 2009
Source: Kaieteur News
URL: http://www.kaieteurnews.com/2009/04/23/national-library-sponsors-competition-to-rekindle-love-for-reading/


Excerpt:

In its quest to rekindle a love for reading among young children, the National Library will...commence a Champion Readers competition to involve young people countrywide.

According to Chief Librarian, Ms Gillian Thompson, the reading competition, which comes as part of the 100th anniversary of the library’s existence, is an effort to make reading more attractive to children of all ages.

Abstract:
The article provides information about the new initiative of a reading competition being launched as part of the National Library 100th anniversary celebration. Purpose of the reading programme, as well as information about how the programme is structured is provided. In the article, more details are also given regarding the National Library's plan for its 100th anniversary celebrations.