Antigua and Barbuda gets new building for national public library

Title: A National Library at last
Date published: April 10, 2014
Source: Government of Antigua and Barbuda
URL: http://www.ab.gov.ag/article_details.php?id=4758&category=38

Abstract:
The article reports the re-opening of the new building for the national public library of Antigua and Barbuda. The previous location is noted as is the length of the construction process leading to the new building. The report also reports, from the opening ceremony, speeches from both the Minister of Education Dr. Hon. Jacqui Quinn-Leandro and the Minister Dr. Hon. Baldwin Spencer about the process and about the national importance of the library.

Mentioned also are the rooms that the national public library will offer including a children’s library and reading room, adult reading rooms, a modern conference room, a research and reference library, newspaper and periodicals section, staff and lobby areas, a cafeteria and a gift shop.

Excerpt:

After four decades since the public library was damaged by an earthquake, construction of the new national public library of Antigua and Barbuda has been completed. The work which was started in the 1990's has been completed under the United Progressive Party administration signaling another campaign promise fulfilled by the “People First” Government. The 20,000 square foot multi-level complex building located on Hails Prominard Road is a replacement for the nation's first library which was damaged by an earthquake in 1974.  The country has operated a ‘temporary’ library on Market Street since.

Minister of Education Dr. Hon. Jacqui Quinn-Leandro is the fifth Education Minister to preside over the library construction project. On Wednesday, moments before the ribbons were cut to open the doors of the building, the minister noted she was cognizant of the challenges her predecessors in the ministry faced, but that she was determined that the project would be completed under her watch.

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!.”

National Library of Jamaica acquires DVD series of 2008 to 2012 Powerful Men and Women concert series

Title: Powerful Men and Women make legal deposit
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date published: April 16, 2013
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/Powerful-Men-and-Women-make-legal-deposit-_14077472

Abstract:
This newspaper article reports on the National Library of Jamaica's acquisition of DVD video recordings of a Jamaican charity concert series featuring prominent and popular public officials and personalities. The board director and fund-raising chairman of the concert series, Thyra Heaven, is named as the person depositing the DVDs in keeping with the Legal Deposit Act. A brief statement is given explaining the Legal deposit act. The article also purports that the National Library views this particular deposit as being a primary research resource for researchers studying charity organisations in early 21st-century Jamaica.


Excerpt:

THE collection of Jamaica's recorded culture and heritage at the National Library of Jamaica was increased recently with the handing over of video recordings of the concert series, Powerful Men and Woment [sic] in Concert. 

While preparing for this year's concert, set for June 2, Thyra Heaven stopped by the National Library of Jamaica last Wednesday to make her legal deposit of DVDs of the 2008 to 2012 concerts.

Universal Service Fund (USF) to fund the digitisation of works at the National Library of Jamaica

Author: RODGER HUTCHINSON
Title: Universal Service Fund Reports $9.7bn in Revenue
Date published: FRIDAY, 08 MARCH 2013
Source: Jamaica Information Service
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/leads/33174


Abstract:

The article discusses the Universal Service Fund (USF), an initiative by the Jamaican government to collect funds from incoming telephone calls, to be used for developing the nation's broadband services islandwide and enable more Jamaicans to access Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The purpose and work on the USF is mentioned, which includes creating an ICT platform in secondary schools, libraries, post offices, and at community access points (CAPs). The amount of funds collected as of February 5, 2013 is mentioned. Also mentioned are some of the projects being funded, approved and even completed. One such project is the digitisation of works at the National Library of Jamaica, of which the rationale behind the approval of the digitisation project is stated.

Excerpts:

Addressing a JIS ‘Think Tank’ on Wednesday, March 6, Chief Executive Officer of the USF, Hugh Cross, said some 34 libraries, 112 schools, and 57 post offices have already been connected.  

Among other projects being undertaken is the digitisation of works at the National Library of Jamaica located at East Street downtown Kingston.

“We just approved funding for them to digitise their entire content. They have vital content on paper and we would like to move that to where it is digitised and web-enabled and accessible from anywhere in the world, because, as you know, paper will deteriorate over time,” Mr. Cross stated.

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.

National Library of Jamaica unveils new logo

Title: More Jamaicans encouraged to visit the National Library
Date published: Thursday, March 15, 2012
Source: Jamaica Information Service (JIS)/ Jamaica Observer
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/More-Jamaicans-encouraged-to-visit-the-National-Library

Abstract:

The article reports on a speech by Jamaica's Minster of Youth and Culture, Lisa Hanna, at the unveiling of the National Library of Jamaica's (NLJ)'s new logo at the library’s East Street office. Hannah's speech endorsed the work of the NLJ and mentions the value of its collection to Jamaica. Hannah also mentioned her wish for more Jamaicans to know about NLJ's collection and for greater private sector contributions to the NLJ.



Excerpt:

MINISTER of Youth and Culture, Lisa Hanna, is encouraging more Jamaicans to visit and make use of the opportunities offered at the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ), to learn more about the country’s culture and history.

“The work that you are doing here is phenomenal and I would really appreciate if more Jamaicans come, see and learn about our history, the journey that we have made as a people, and even to see what we do with very small resources,” Hannah said.

She was speaking at the unveiling of the NLJ’s new logo yesterday at the library’s East Street office.

The minister also encouraged private sector persons who want to give back something to Jamaica, to do so through the National Library.

“I think the national library is one of those symbols that we can stand very proud on as Jamaicans. The rich history that you have sitting here and what you are able to collect is truly remarkable,” Hanna told the staff.

Construction delay for the National Public Library of Antigua & Barbuda

Author: Rory Butler 
Title: No Public Library by year-end

Date published: Thursday, November 24th, 2011.
Source: Antigua Observer.com
URL: http://www.antiguaobserver.com/?p=67741


Abstract:

The article reports on the inability of the governing administration to honour a commitment to complete the new library building site for the National Public Library of Antigua and Barbuda for 2011.The delay is reportedly caused by a lack of funding. Executive Secretary of the Board of Education (BOE) D Gisele Isaac provides further detail of the source of funding and the reasons for the delay. The article also reports that construction materials to be manufactured overseas are required. The cost of the construction project is also mentioned. In addition what the building will house and some of its amenities and facilities are also mentioned.

Excerpt:

St. John’s Antigua- Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer is not going to be able to keep his commitment to Antigua & Barbuda to have the National Public Library completed in 2011.

Executive Secretary of the Board of Education (BOE) D Gisele Isaac confirmed yesterday that a 2011 completion date is out of the question.

“Oh absolutely not. Today is the (23rd November). No, of course it can’t be completed this year. The first thing we need to get is overseas materials, so even if I were to place the order today there is no way they are going to get here for us to complete anything before year-end. So, no it’s not going to happen in 2011,” Isaac said yesterday.

In January this year Spencer categorically stated, “The public library must be completed and operationalised by 2011, whatever the situation.”

Spencer at the time said his administration was taking full responsibility for the inordinate delay in the completion of the facility, “but it must be done.”

Upon completion, the 20,000 square foot multi-level complex building will be fully air-conditioned and host between 70 and 80 computers.

It will offer several rooms, including a children’s library and reading room, adult reading rooms, a modern conference room, a research and reference library, newspaper and periodicals section, staff and lobby areas, a cafeteria and a gift shop

Students from Belize to benefit from e-library service

Title: Students to benefit from e-library service
Date published: Saturday, 29 October 2011
Source: The [Belize] Reporter
URL: http://www.reporter.bz/index.php?mod=article&cat=General&article=5330

Abstract:

Article reports on an announcement made by Belize's Minister of Education Hon. Patrick Faber and Chief Librarian for the Belize National Library Service, Joy Ysaguirre, about the national access for students at all levels of education to over 20, 000 e-resources accessible from their home. Access will be provided through the National Library of Belize, who will supply the password to those patrons interested. The proprietary e-library vendor behind the provision of these electronic resources is named, as well a brief profile on the company and its services.

Excerpt:

Students all across Belize now have free access to more than  20,000 online publications, because  the Government of Belize has added EBSCO Publishing’s extensive e-library program to the list of  educational resources available to students.

The program will grant students of all academic levels access to a database comprised of thousands of full text publications including journals, magazines, newspapers and more.

National Library of Jamaica Gone Digital

TITLE: National Library of Jamaica Gone Digital
DATE: Tuesday, 06 July 2010
SOURCE: Jamaica Information News (JIS NEWS)
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/110/24585?mode=redirect


EXCERPT:

With the click of a mouse in the comfort of their homes, Jamaicans can now access historical materials, including maps, photographs and plans, which are stored on the website of the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ).
In an era when more and more information is being sought on the Internet, the NLJ has moved to facilitate the process, by digitising its collections as well as downloading and storing Jamaican publications on its website.
"We use robot software to scan the universe of web publication and collect and load and bring into the national library's collection, things having to do with Jamaica," Executive Director of the NLJ, Winsome Hudson tells JIS News.
This process, known as web-archiving, is one of the latest initiatives of the NLJ. Mrs. Hudson says the Library is also collecting selective publications from websites belonging to some ministries and government agencies.
"Of course, this is a pilot project, so we really are not collecting everything on the Internet about Jamaica, but we are collecting select publications at this point while we test the process," she adds.

ABSTRACT:
Executive Director of the NLJ, Winsome Hudson discusses the NLJ's activities and plans in digitizing aspects of its collection, as well as the activities involve in collecting digital collections that are already online. Patron and history lecturer at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus, Dr. Kathleen Monteit also discusses how important the collection at the National Library of Jamaica is to historians and to the study of Jamaican and Caribbean history. She also indicates some unique sources that are available at the national library in a variety of formats

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.

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.

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."

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

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."

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.

‘Let’s play chess’ at the National Library

Title: ‘Let’s play chess’ at the National Library

Source: Trinidad and Tobago's NewsDay

Date Published: Thursday, September 10 2009

URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/sport/0,107071.html


Abstract:
National Library of Trinidad and Tobago accommodates the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Foundation chess training programme. The President of the Foundation outlines the potential benefits of the programme.

Excerpt:

THE Trinidad and Tobago Chess Foundation has launched their training programme, “Let’s Play Chess”, in Port-of-Spain. The eight-week training programme is staged on on Sundays from 10 am to noon starting at the National Library.

The programme offers adults and young people from the age of seven years, the opportunity to benefit from training in the sport. Commenting on the programme, Edison Raphael, President of the Chess Foundation, said, “Chess is a game which focusses [sic] on the development of critical thinking skills and cognitive ability.”

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."

National Library of Jamaica wins award to save historical documents

Title: National Library wins award to save historical documents

Source: Jamaica Gleaner

Date Published: Sunday, August 23, 2009

URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20090823/arts/arts4.html

Abstract:

The article reports on the success of the National Library of Jamaica, a division of the Institute of Jamaica, in acquiring international funding for a conservation project. The amount awarded is also mentioned, which according to the report is
just under $3 million. The funding body is the 2009 Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).

The purpose for which the money was requested is also mentioned. According to the report, the National Library put forward the project proposal to acquire the funding necessary for the conservation of the Enos Nuttall Manuscripts - "documents dating back to the late 19th and early 20th century, and records significant milestones in Jamaica's history".

Brief information about the fund and the funding agency , AFCP, is also given, including its purpose of assisting "less-developed countries in preserving museum collections, ancient and historic sites, and traditional forms of expression,...[demonstrating] the United States' respect for other cultures.

Background information on the Enos Nuttall manuscripts is also reported, including the scope of it contents in the coverage of Jamaican historical events.

Brief background information about the National Library of Jamaica is also provided.


Excerpt:

The National Library of Jamaica has been awarded just under $3 million through the 2009 Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). The money will be used for the conservation of the Enos Nuttall Manuscripts - documents dating back to the late 19th and early 20th century, and records significant milestones in Jamaica's history.

The AFCP, created by US Congress in 2001, aims to assist less-developed countries in preserving museum collections, ancient and historic sites, and traditional forms of expression, and was developed to demonstrate the United States' respect for other cultures. The fund is administered by the US Embassy through the US State Department.

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.

Institute of Jamaica issues open invitation

Title: Come on over! Institute of Jamaica issues open invitation
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Sunday | July 12, 2009
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20090712/arts/arts1.html

Abstract:

The various summer attractions that the Institute of Jamaica has to offer visitors to see and experience are outlined. Some of the museums operated by the Institute are also mentioned in this article.

The article also contains comments by Vivian Crawford, Executive Director of the Institute of Jamaica, about the major clientele visiting the Institute, which comprised of school groups. However, the Director states his desire for the Institute to reach out to families.