National Library of Jamaica's holdings to be placed on Worldcat

Author: Minister, the Hon. Lisa Hanna, Ministry of Youth & Culture
Title: Contribution to the 2014/2015 Sectoral Debate
Date published: May 20, 2014
Source: Jamaica Information Service (JIS):
URL:  http://jis.gov.jm/media/hanna-sectoral1.pdf
 

Abstract:

The Hon. Lisa Hanna, the Minister responsible for the portfolio of the Ministry of Youth & Culture, announces a number of events and plans for the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ). Among the events mentioned are:

• the NLJ's 2014 Distinguished Lecture to be presented by novelist, poet and Panama historian Miss Olive Senior to mark the Centenary of the Panama Canal and its impact and influence on the construction of Jamaica's economy and culture.
• The award of Poet Laureate to Professor Mervyn Morris

Also mentioned in her speech to Parliament are the plans afoot to:

• outsource the NLJ's catalogue to OCLC's Worldcat Local 
• the launch of a digitized encyclopaedia of Jamaica for local and global references
• and the digitization of  legacy 16 millimetre film resources for dissemination through social media

Excerpt:

The National Library in an effort to maximise use of its resources will implement an alternative to the current library management system, which though very low in cost is the most effective at showcasing the NLJ resources locally and globally. The new system Worldcat Local will place the catalogue of the library's holdings into a global library catalogue that is discoverable through popular search engines such as Google, Yahoo and Bing. In a real way this new system will truly enable Jamaica to the World. 

In addition, in recognition of the public's preferred mode of accessing information we launched the National Library of Jamaica Digital Collection. NLJDigital will create a digitized encyclopaedia of Jamaica for local and global references. This digital encyclopaedia includes material from the library's paper and photograph collection as well as the full text of18th and 19th century Jamaican books already digitised by Google.

In a further move to preserve the nation's intellectual output, this year we will be transferring the legacy 16 millimetre film resources to digital and the concomitant dissemination of these resources through programming and social media.

 

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.

Event to encourage donations for the National Library of Jamaica's sound collection

Title: Local Artistes Encouraged To Donate To Library
Date published: Thursday, October 25, 2012
Source: Jamaica Gleaner

URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20121025/ent/ent5.html

Abstract:
Article reports on efforts by the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) to host an event to encourage local artistes to donate to building the library's sound collection. Also mentioned is the Legal Deposit Act that came into existence and its influence in developing the library's CD collection.

Excerpt:

"The National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) plans to present Legalise It, a collaborative effort with Teddy Laidley Productions on Friday. 

Legalise It seeks to encourage local artistes to build a sound collection at the National Library of Jamaica by making legal deposits to the library."

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

NLJ seminar presentations published online

Earlier this year, the National Library of Jamaica held a seminar under the theme: “Building the National Union Catalogue: Challenges & Issues”. The Seminar presented by the National Library of Jamaica was held at the Knutsford Court Hotel on April 21, 2009

These papers or presentations are now available online at: http://www.nlj.org.jm/Seminar_papers_2009/Seminar_Papers_2009.htm


For those, who may not have been familiar with the event, below are the details for the event.

EVENT: National Library of Jamaica Seminar
THEME: “Building the Jamaica Union Catalogue: The Information Portal for All”
DATE: Tuesday, April 21, 2009
VENUE: Knutsford Court Hotel, Kingston Jamaica
SPONSOR: National Library of Jamaica

Institute of Ja head wants more visitors

Author: Oliver Clark
Title: Institute of Ja head wants more visitors
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Saturday | May 2, 2009


URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20090502/lead/lead5.html


Abstract:
The article introduces the problem of the low visits by Jamaican nationals to the Institute of Jamaica and the low usage or viewing of its resources, collections and services. The value of the services and collection are expressed, as well as the mission or mandate of the Institute.


Excerpt:

Vivian Crawford stands in a gallery full of exhibits but empty of visitors. As the executive director of the institute, it saddens him that there are not more people who come to experience what the institute has to offer.

National Library Developing Digital Audio Books for Visually Impaired

Title: National Library Developing Digital Audio Books for Visually Impaired
Source: KINGSTON, Jamaica Information Service (JIS):
Date Published: Thursday, April 30, 2009
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/officepm/html/20090430t010000-0500_19425_jis_national_library_developing_digital_audio_books_for_visually_impaired_.asp


Excerpt:
The National Library of Jamaica is developing Digital Audio Books for visually impaired Jamaicans.

The new format will assist visually impaired persons who are unable to access research or recreational material, other than by Braille, because of the unavailability of Digital Audio Books and material.

Executive Director of the National Library, Winsome Hudson, made the disclosure at a recent JIS Think Tank news briefing in Kingston.

Abstract:
In this article the Director of National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) explains of plans to create Digital Audio Books for the visually impaired to support them in secondary and tertiary education. The article details the proposals, indicating how the project will be funded, the model to be followed, the partners to be involved and some of the problems encountered. The reasons why the project is being pursued is also highlighted.

National Library to publish its 30th anniversary publication

I have gotten information that the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) is to celebrate its 30th anniversary. As a part of its activities, NLJ wants to launch a 30th anniversary publication.

See the link for details: http://www.nlj.org.jm/NLJ_RFP.pdf.

Title: National Library of Jamaica Request for Proposal: Production of 30th Anniversary Publication
SOURCE: National Library of Jamaica

Excerpt from the source:

The National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) hereby requests proposals from suitably qualified consultants for the preparation and production of a publication to mark its 30th anniversary as a National Library (1979-2009).


This publication will document the full history of the institution – written and oral - dating back to 1894 when it was first established as the West India Reference Library (WIRL). The publication will also seek to promote the functions, purposes and services of the organization.

The NLJ was established in 1979 to collect, preserve and facilitate access to the national collection - nation’s history and heritage. The National Library of Jamaica currently offers to its users the following services:

• consultation for research and study of the materials in its possession including film and sound resources;
• free internet access;
• reproduction of some resources
• and the assigning of International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN) as well as
  International Standard Serial Numbers (ISSN);
• distribution of library management software CDS/ISIS to over three hundred libraries across the country
• and preparing Cataloguing-In-Publication (CIP) for local publishers.

National Library of Jamaica Seminar

EVENT: National Library of Jamaica Seminar
THEME: “Building the Jamaica Union Catalogue: The Information Portal for All”
DATE: Tuesday, April 21, 2009
TIME: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

VENUE: Knutsford Court Hotel

SPONSOR: National Library of Jamaica

URL: http://www.nlj.org.jm/NLJ_Seminar_2009.pdf


TOPICS:

• Concept of National Union Catalogue


• Cataloguing Issues and Indexing


• Technological Challenges & Opportunities

CDS/ISIS User Group Meeting

National Library Stages Open Day

Title: National Library Stages Open Day on November 3
SOURCE: Jamaica Information Service (JIS), KINGSTON
Publication Date: Friday, October 27, 2006

URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/indus_tourism/html/20061026t140000-0500_10409_jis_national_library_stages_open_day_on_november_3.asp


Abstract:

This article reads as a press release informing persons about the National Library of Jamaica staging an open day. The article also contains information about some of the collections and services that the National Library has to offer, as well as the library's mission and mandate.

National Library Establishes Online Album

TITLE: National Library Establishes Online Album
SOURCE: KINGSTON (Jamaica Information Service)
AUTHOR: DON DOBSON
DATE: Friday, August 29, 2008
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/education/html/20080829t140000-0500_16491_jis_national_library_establishes_online_album.asp


ABSTRACT:
The article reports the National Library of Jamaica's new Online Picture Album showcasing digital images from all the fourteen parishes of Jamaica. Goals and aspirations of the new initiative is also discussed. Information about the National Library is also presented.


ABSTRACT (from Source):

The National Library of Jamaica (NLJ), has established the country's first National Online Album titled 'Picture Dis: The National Online Album, of Jamaica', with pictures from as early as the 1800s.

"Picture Dis is the first national album of Jamaica. It is a digital image collection of outstanding people, memorable places and unique products that come from each parish in Jamaica..."

National Library of Jamaica Conference Papers

The National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) has now put on-line the conference papers from its recent conference held at Jamaica Conference Centre 14-20 Port Royal Street , Kingston.

The conference was entitled "Libraries Networking for National Development", and was held on November 22-23, 2007.

Below is a link to the page with the conference papers!

Click here for conference papers