Jamaica Library Service Launches ICT-driven Initiatives

Author: Kadian Brown
Title: JLS Urged to Expand Provision of Information
Date: November 7, 2014
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/jls-urged-expand-provision-information/


Abstract:
This article reports excerpts from a speech from the Jamaican Minister of Education, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, speaking at the official launch of the Jamaican Library Service's Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-driven project. The project dubbed: ‘Using Technology to Empower Individuals and Communities for Development’, was launched on November 6 at the Kingston & St. Andrew Parish Library.


Background information is provided about the project including 

• the major sponsors and the amount they contributed (a US$2 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Libraries Initiative and from the Government, the amount of US$1.1 million), 
• how it will be implemented (the provision of additional ICT resources across 127 public libraries in Jamaica)
• additional project partners, namely: Microsoft, RJR Communication Group, Jamaica Information Service (JIS), Universal Service Fund, Management Institute for National Development (MIND), the Gleaner Company and Jamaica Public Service Limited (JPS).

Several major objectives of the project are outlined:

• to provide Jamaicans with increased access to ICTs
• to enhance library programmes and services and training in ICT skills and other related areas for JLS staff and library users.

The Minister also outlines his vision for seeing the JLS:

• conceptualize activities, programmes and partnerships to get more persons to utilize library services
• facilitate after-school and weekend activities for young people 
• systemize homework centres in all the libraries
• consider initiatives to facilitate adult learning.
• enter into partnership with the Jamaica Foundation for Lifelong Learning in the roll-out of the alternate high school diploma for adults
• be stocked with all of the texts that are used in schools as well as the supplemental material that students who cannot afford to purchase these can gain access to them at the library.

Excerpt:
Minister of Education, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, has challenged the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) to be a facilitator of information to various sectors of society, in order to enhance knowledge, technology and development.

“The library, through technology, must be an adjunct and a help to what goes on in the school system.  The library has to become the centre where young people or people of any age can come and get information as to how they can improve their business skills or confirm themselves in the task of earning an honest income,” the Minister said.

Rev. Thwaites was speaking at the official launch of the JLS’ ICT-driven project dubbed: ‘Using Technology to Empower Individuals and Communities for Development’, on November 6 at the Kingston & St. Andrew Parish Library.

Marcus Garvey Resource Centre established: Youth urged to use it

Author: Garfield Angus
Title: Youth Urged to make use of Marcus Garvey Resource Centre
Date Published: WEDNESDAY, 05 SEPTEMBER 2012
Source: Jamaica Information Service

Abstract:

The article reports on the Marcus Garvey Resource Centre housed in St. Ann, Jamaica. The facility officially opened on August 17, commemorating the 125th anniversary of the National Hero's birth. Information about some of the materials in the collection is provided. Information about how the resource centre came into existence is also provided, including the funding agencies and partners behind the project. The article also reports on the Director of Jamaica Library Service, Patricia Roberts, giving her vision for the centre and its major objectives. Future plans for the centre are also outlined

The article also reports on a number of other officials making various statements about the resource centre. The Mayor of St. Ann’s Bay, Councillor Desmond Gilmore, discusses the significance of the facility and his feelings towards it. The Custos of St. Ann, Hon. Radcliffe Walters, encourages young people in particular to use the facility. St. Ann Festival Queen, Kemesha Kelly also provides statements on the value of the centre. At the end, a brief biography about Marcus Garvey is also provided.



Excerpt:

Young people in St. Ann are being encouraged to make use of the Marcus Garvey Resource Centre in the parish to gain greater insight into the National Hero’s life and work. The facility, housed at the Parish Library in St. Ann's Bay was officially opened on August 17, to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Garvey’s birth. It is equipped with books written by the National Hero, the works of Garvey scholars, several memorabilia, and copies of the Negro World newspaper that Garvey founded and was its chief editor.

UG libraries moving to full automation by year end - Stabroek News - Guyana

Title: UG libraries moving to full automation by year end
Source: Stabroek News
Date published: Thursday, May 19, 2011
URL: http://www.stabroeknews.com/2011/news/stories/05/19/ug-libraries-moving-to-full-automation-by-year-end/

ABSTRACT:
The article reports on plans for the University of Guyana to automate its library facilities.

EXCERPT:
The Department of Software Services of the University of Guyana is working to have the library facilities at the university’s two campuses fully automated by the end of this year.
Works have already been undertaken in this regard with the recent unveiling of the library automation system KOHA at the Tain Campus in Berbice. The move would see students accessing the library facilities via the internet which means they would not have to physically check the library for books they require.

Dominica Library and Information Service Observes 2011 Library Week

Title: Dominica Library and Information Service Observes 2011 Library Week
Source: The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica's Official Website (dominica.gov.dm)
Date published: May 03, 2011
URL: http://www.dominica.gov.dm/cms/?q=node%2F1385


Abstract:
Article announces the Dominica Library and Information Service 2011 Library Week. Planned and scheduled activities for the week are announced included the venue of where these activities will be taking place. Among the activities planned are sessions of interest to promote library services, centres and collections, including information skills training.


EXCERPT:

Library week will be celebrated from May 9 – 14, 2011 with the theme, "Discover the Possibilities @ Your Library."
Libraries are places of opportunity and the Library and Information Service will engage in a number of activities during the week to promote the services and holdings and reach out to the community.

National Library Service of Barbados seeking to 'book' the unborn

Author: BY CARLOS ATWELL
Title: Booking unborn
Date Published: TUE, APRIL 12, 2011 - 12:02 AM
Source: Barbados Nation News
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/articles/view/booking-unborn

Abstract:
Article reports on the National Library Service of Barbados's strategic direction, their strengths and gaps. The article notes that the library was, despite the growth of e-readers, still popular with children, adults and senior citizens. Nevertheless, the article also reports that library personnel are embarking on a strategy of promoting reading from the “baby stage” in order to get children accustomed to hearing a voice reading from as early as pregnancy. Disclosure is made of a team at the Sir Winston Scott Polyclinic speaking to pregnant mothers, introducing the library service's Leap Into Reading Programme for children from one to five years old.

Mention is also made of the acquisitions of  e-books by the libray, where the Director Annette Smith indicates that the Library Service had began the development of a collection of e-books to keep relevant with new technology. The view is however expressed that new sources like the Kindle and e-books are still incapable of competing with reading in the library or even reading the printed book.

Appeal is also made for donations in acquiring new books as well as volunteers to read to children.The Director also expresses the view that the library needs a bus to provide extended services to various communities during school summer holidays.

Mention is also made of the US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Brent Hardt presenting a list of books to the library as part of the National Library Week celebration in the United States.


Excerpt:

The National Library Service is not daunted by technology like the Kindle, but it is taking the fight for literacy to another level.

The service is seeking to reach Barbadians even before birth by promoting reading to unborn children through interacting with expectant mums at the polyclinics.

Yesterday, after a donation of 22 Notable Books by the United States Embassy, acting senior librarian at the Bridgetown branch, Grace Haynes, explained that although the library was still a popular place for children, adults and even senior citizens, library personnel felt the need to promote reading from the “baby stage”. 

NALIS opens library at St Jude’s School for Girls

Author: By NEWSDAY REPORTER
Title: NALIS opens library at St Jude’s School for Girls
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
Date Published: Thursday, July 29 2010
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,124849.html


Abstract:

The article reports on the official opening of the National Library and Information Systems Authority (NALIS) Library at the St Jude’s School for Girls in Belmont. It reports excerpts from the speech of the Director of NALIS, Annette Wallace, and Nela Khan, the Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism.

In this article, the Director of NALIS blames illiteracy for crime, while Nela Khan, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism, advocates the importance of youth accessing information in making them well-adjusted to society and economy, and to nation building.

Finally Wallace provides some comments about future expansion of NALIS services to the Women’s Prison at the Maximum Security Prison in Golden Grove Arouca and the St Michael’s School for Boys in Diego Martin.


Excerpt:

“Wallace revealed that in the next fiscal year NALIS plans to open two more libraries, the first at the Women’s Prison at the Maximum Security Prison in Golden Grove Arouca, and the next at the St Michael’s School for Boys in Diego Martin."

Branch library workers go door to door in Barbados

Author: (YB)[Yvette Best?]
Title: Branch workers going door to door
Source: Barbados Nation News
Date published: October 24, 2009
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/news/local/COMMUNITY-library-canvas-copy-for-web


Abstract:
The article outlines the new marketing strategy for the Barbados Public branch library to increase the use of its library services. This involves canvassing the community like politicians.

The librarian outlines how this strategy will be undertaken, and the rationale behind it. One of the obstacles to the use of the new library facility is also articulated. The acting library directory also indicates a plan to overcome that obstacle.

The article also gives the age of the Barbados Public library service and reports on its current expansion and improvement in infrastructure.


Excerpt:

STAFF OF the Barbados Library Service are preparing to hit the road.

Acting Director of the Barbados Library Service, Avonda Callender, said she and her staff would be canvassing the districts in St Joseph to get people to use the new facilities at Tamarind Hall in the Eric Holder Jr. Complex.

"We're going out there, foot to foot. This is the first time the library will do it. It's a new marketing strategy we're introducing and we are going to do it in St Joseph.

Not enough staff for Barbados library system

Author: Yvette Best
Title: Not enough staff for library needs
Source:
Date Published: 10/24/2009.
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/news/local/COMMUNITY-library-staff-shortage-copy-for-web

Abstract:
Article reports on how staff shortage is curtailing the library's service to the community and society.

Information is also given about how the use of the library has changed especially with the advent of computers.

The article also outlines some of the programmes and services that the Barbados public library system offers, thereby revealing one area of the library system's strength. However the article also outlines that diversification of the services and programmes is also curtailed by the shortage of staff.


Excerpt:

A SHORTAGE OF STAFF is preventing the Barbados Library Service from fully completing its mandate.

Acting director of the Barbados Library Service, Avonda Callender, said the current complement of 37 was insufficient for the eight branch libraries.

"There is a problem . . . Government has to provide the staffing. So we are trying to introduce new services with the limited staff. We cannot provide half the services that we really would like to do," she said.

Barbados library service needs more personnel

Author: Khalil Goodman
Title: Island’s library service needs more personnel
Source: The Barbados Advocate
Date Published: October 22, 2009
URL: http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/newsitem.asp?more=local&NewsID=6863

Abstract:
This article outlines the plight and plans for personnel to staff the Barbados National Library Service. The Acting Director of the Barbados National Library Service outlines that the need for more personnel is required to aid the Library service in its expansion of services to nation.

Information is also divulged about the Tamarind Hall Branch Library, and the services that it expected to deliver to the community.

The Minister of Community Development and Culture is also cited as outlining his vision for the National Library service in its upgrading of its services. The Minister also agrees with the need for emphasis on meeting the manpower and human resource need to the library's success in offering new services. He highlights several human resource development plans for the Barbados National Library Service towards achieving this.




Excerpt:

The Barbados Library Service has continued to expand its range of services to meet the Barbadian public’s needs in the 21st century. Unfortunately, the service needs more staff so that these services can be provided consistently.

“Presently we have 38 posts and we need additional staff to help provide services more efficiently,” said Evonda Callendar, Acting Director of the Barbados National Library Service.
She spoke to the Barbados Advocate after the opening of the Tamarind Hall Branch Library in St. Joseph, at the Eric Holder Municipal Complex. This branch brings the number of libraries of the service to eight.

Barbados National Library's 2009 Literacy Fun Day and Summer Programme

Author: (DB)

Title: Creative writers in the making

Source: Barbados Nation News

Date Published: September 6, 2009

http://www.nationnews.com/news/local/National-Library-Service-Literacy-Fun-Day-copy-for-web

Abstract:

Article highlights the Barbados first National Library's Literacy Fun Day event as well as the library's summer programmes held across the island. These events featured activities for children that encourage the development of children writers and their literacy development and skills. The events allowed for children to produce 31 books and share their original creative writings through the reading of their work to the public. The Literacy Fun day also saw a puppet show to entertain those who attended.

The article also contains comments by the children service librarian, Jennifer Yarde, regarding the rationale behind the library's events and activities.



Excerpt:

"YOUNG WRITERS came out to show off their creativity and skill at the National Library Service's first ever Literacy Fun Day at Queen's Park, St Michael, yesterday.

Under the theme Literacy Beyond The Vision, librarians from all the departments came out to lend their support to the future writers of Barbados, some of whom were as young as seven years old.

"At the Library we encourage children to read and write, so that they can improve their literacy skills," children's librarian Jennifer Yarde said.

The youthful scribes came out to share their stories and books which they had written at the recently concluded summer programme held at the various libraries across the island."

Drop in the Usage of Libraries by theTrinidad and Tobago Public

Author: Akile Simon

Title: $144m spent on libraries in past year...Nalis laments drop in usage by public


Source: Trinidad and Tobago

Date Published: 16 July 2009

URL: http://guardian.co.tt/news/general/2009/07/16/nalis-laments-drop-usage-public

Abstract:

The article reports on a speech given by the executive director of the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) of Trinidad and Tobago, Annette Wallace. In her speech, Wallace discloses the the amount spent on libraries by the body (NALIS). Wallace also discloses the results of a survey that despite the expenditure on libraries, public usage of the services have dropped. The article also reveal a particular finding about the perception of nonusers of the library and the future plans for the development of libraries in Trinidad and Tobago. The Information Minister, Neil Parsanlal, also spoke, affirming the Government's support of NALIS in further advancing the nation's mission of developing its human capital through public access to information.

The article also discloses that the speeches by Wallace and Parsanlal were given at the opening ceremony of the Arima Public Library on Pro Queen Street in Arima.

Excerpt:

The National Library and Information Systems Authority (Nalis) has dished out a service to the public at a value of more than $144 million for the last fiscal year.

But a survey conducted revealed there was a decline in the usage at public libraries. This disclosure was made by Nalis’ executive director Annette Wallace on Tuesday, while speaking at the opening ceremony of the Arima Public Library on Pro Queen Street in Arima.

Session on Journalism a hit at NALIS Reading Camp

Author: Christopher Boyack

Title: Guardian’s Keithos, Loubon make a hit at Nalis camp

Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian

Date Published: 23 Jul 2009


URL: http://guardian.co.tt/news/life/2009/07/23/guardian-s-keithos-loubon-make-hit-nalis-camp

Abstract:
The article reports on a particular interactive session at the Nalis Vacation Reading Programme Camp. The particular part of the programme in the report is that of two Trinidad and Tobago Guardian Newspaper staff members conducting a session on journalism for the children at the camp. The article gives a synopsis of what the session was like, indicating that the children participated in activities such as giving ideas for cartoons on current political leaders, defining who is a journalist and answering questions on current affairs. The article also reports on one of the presenters giving a promotion on the importance of reading.

Information in the report also sparsely talks about the entire camp programme. Mentioned is the fact that the camp is a four-week camp. This year it opened on July 13 and will end on August 7. The report also mentions about the demographic composition of camp participants as well as the theme of the camp.

Excerpt:

Guardian senior reporter Michelle Loubon and cartoonist Keith Anderson conducted an interactive session on journalism for children attending the Vacation Reading Programme Camp at Nalis Library, Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain...

The theme of the camp is I’ve Got the Power. The children aged from seven to 12. In his avuncular manner, Anderson communicated well with the 47 children drawn from primary schools in Port-of-Spain. Armed with his crayons and pencils, he tapped into the children’s knowledge on political protagonists like Chaguanas West MP Jack Warner and Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday for the cartoon.

Bankers help develop a school library in Trinidad and Tobago

Title: Bankers help build a library
Source: Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday
Date: Tuesday, July 7 2009
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/features/0,103377.html


Excerpt:

"SCOTIABANK has embarked on a library development project at the Lady Hochoy School in Penal. Staff members of the Penal Branch have been volunteering their time and effort to regularly visit the school, walking with their paint brushes to ensure that the library’s walls were in top condition."

Abstract:

The article reports on the corporate social responsibility acts by the ScotiaBank to give back to the community through efforts at developing a school library. The efforts are aimed at the Lady Hochoy School in Penal, where the Bank members have been involved in painting the library's walls and volunteering their labour and service to the library. Services rendered other than the painting of the library, include "the procurement of bookshelves, desks and chairs, as well as sourcing reading material for the children to enjoy”.

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.

Grandma Praises JIS Research Facilities

Author: Lotoya Pennant
Title: Grandma Praises JIS Research Facilities
Source: KINGSTON: Jamaica Information Service (JIS)
Date Published: Saturday, April 18, 2009
URL http://www.jis.gov.jm/officepm/html/20090418t000000-0500_19253_jis_grandma_praises_jis_research_facilities.asp

Abstract:
The article reports on a satisfied patron of the Jamaica Information Service Research and Publications Department [library facility]. It also reports on the mission and history of the Department, its services, its mission, its objectives and goals.


Excerpt:

Mrs. Anderson praises the Government's information agency for continuously providing wholesome, educational programmes to uplift Jamaicans.

While the requests may vary, Mrs. Anderson says she is always able to find the information she needs at the JIS.

Manager of the Research and Publications Department, Celia Lindsay, notes that the information provided by the Department is specialised and focuses on areas such as Government policies and programmes, Jamaican history, culture, and heritage.

"As the government's information arm, the JIS is dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date information and first class service and our collection has books, pamphlets, periodicals and newspaper clippings, dating as far back as the early 1940s," she indicated.

Miss Lindsay notes that, despite the name change, the department remains a relevant and integral resource point for information on Jamaica. Now known as Research and Publications, the department continues to provide commendable archival and library support to a range of clients, mainly Government ministries and agencies, public servants, academics, tertiary and secondary school students, private sector entities and the general public.

Miss Lindsay says that the department has been working assiduously to reposition itself as a provider of up-to-date research/reference material on Government's programmes and policies, and is a comprehensive source of reference information about the history, people and culture.

"We hope to reaffirm the JIS as the first point of contact for government documents, such as Ministry Papers, reports, speeches of past Prime Ministers, Budget and Sectoral Speeches, Laws and Amendments and other information," Miss Lindsay states.

Rockhouse Foundation Donates $1.3 Million to Buy Books for Negril Library

Title: Rockhouse Foundation Donates $1.3 Million to Buy Books for Negril Library

Source: KINGSTON, Jamaica Information Service(JIS):
Date: Friday, March 27, 2009
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/education/html/20090326t220000-0500_18984_jis_rockhouse_foundation_donates__1_3_million_to_buy_books_for_negril_library.asp

Excerpt

The Jamaica Library Service (JLS) today (March 26), received $1.3 million from the Rockhouse Foundation, to purchase books for the Negril Branch Library.

The presentation was made at a ceremony at the JLS office, Tom Redcam Drive, Kingston. The funds will assist the Foundation to fulfill its mandate of enabling national development through the creation and support of a knowledge-based society of culturally aware lifelong learners.

The foundation is also refurbishing the Negril Branch Library at a cost of $30 million. This will be completed by the end of May.

Abstract:
The article reports on a official ceremony held at Jamaica Library Service Headquarters to recognise and formally receive donations for the development of the Negril branch of Jamaica's public library system. In the article, gratitude and tribute is paid to the donors, Rockhouse Foundation, by the Director of Jamaica Library Service, Mrs. Patricia Roberts and the Mayor of Savanna-la-Mar, Councillor Bertel Moore.

Information is also relayed regarding the expectation of how the funds will be used as well as the Foundation's mandate and mission.

Specific mention is also made about the work the foundation is doing to refurbish the Negril Branch Library to the cost of $30 million. Mention is also made about the new children library spaces that are being designed.

Story book about the steel pan launched at NALIS Children’s Library

Author: Michelle Loubon
Title: Boy Boy makes magic at Children’s Library
Source: Trinidad & Tobago Guardian
Date Published: February 16th, 2009

URL: http://guardian.co.tt/features/entertainment/2009/02/17/boy-boy-makes-magic-children-s-library

Abstract:

The author reports on the book launch of the new children's story book "Boy Boy and The Magic Drum", written by soca superstar Machel Montano at Nalis Children’s Library.
.

A report on B'dos Library's Black History Month's panel discussion on Black entrepreneurship

Author: ANMARIE BAILEY-BLAKE
Title: Blacks must 'grab bigger piece of business pie'
Source: Barbadian Nation News
Date: February 07, 2009
URL: >http://www.nationnews.com/story/329839168447613.php.

Excerpt:
BLACKS CAN and need to do more to control a bigger piece of the local business market.

This was the consensus of a Black History Month panel discussion, Blacks In Business - The Way Forward, held at the main branch of the Barbados Library Service last Thursday.


Abstract:
The article provides a report on the Black History Month panel discussion, Blacks In Business - The Way Forward, held at the main branch of the Barbados Library Service.

Library's Black History Month Panel Discussion

Title: BLACK HISTORY MONTH PANEL DISCUSSION ON FEB 05

Source: Barbados Government Information Service

Date: February 02, 2009

URL: http://www.barbados.gov.bb/site_search.asp?id=2009227587.txt

Abstract:

The article gives information on a panel discussion put on by National Library Service to celebrate black history month. The panel discussion was scheduled to take place at the library’s new headquarters. The the purpose of the discussion as stated in the article "is to sensitise Barbadians about the dynamics of business, and the way forward to achieve successful business enterprises."

UWI Mona Campus Opens New Postgraduate Learning Commons

Notice:
The following is a record of an event that took place on Thursday February 5, 2009. While I was present at the event, and am capable of providing further information/details, seeing that I have no formal training in journalism, I prefer to report the facts that have been documented elsewhere. My personal belief is that journalism is a profession and that those who are trained to report events should do the job. However, news will not always be discovered by the journalist. As such, as a citizen journalist I provide the sources of information, whereby the real journalists and researchers can investigate the actual facts.

Event: The Opening of the New Postgraduate Learning Commons at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus Main Library.

Location:The Mezzanine Floor of the Main Library of the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Kingston 7, Jamaica, W.I.

Source: University of the West Indies, Mona Campus

URL: http://www.mona.uwi.edu/notices/2009/pglc.pdf

Abstract:
The Principal Prof. Gordon Shirley, opened the Library's new
Postgraduate Learning Commons (PGLC) on Thursday February 5, 2009. The ribbon was cut by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Nigel Harris and one of the former Prime Minister of Jamaica, now Honorary Distinguished Fellow, Hon. Edward Seaga.

The PGLC room will be open to postgraduates from Friday February 6, 2009.