Jamaica Library Service receives computer software from Microsoft

Author: Douglas Mcintosh
Title: JLS Receives Computer Software Valued at $131.85 Million
Date published: June 20, 2015
Source: Jamaica Information Service
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/jls-receives-computer-software-valued-131-85-million/

Abstract:
This article reports on the funding and donations received by the  Jamaica Library Service’s (JLS) for its information and communications technology (ICT) project. How the funding and donations will be used is announced as well the purposes to which the newly acquired ICT resources will be applied.

The JLS Director General, Karen Barton, is reported expressing gratitude for the donations and funding. Microsoft Jamaica Country Manager, George Cobin, is also reported as praising the JLS for its ICT initiatives. Microsoft Jamaica’s Sector Manager for Education, Queenie Ko, is also cited as expressing happiness that  Microsoft could support JLS in using technology for empower individuals and community development in Jamaica.

Further information is provided on both JLS and the  Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Excerpt:

The Jamaica Library Service’s (JLS) information and communications technology (ICT) project, currently being developed, has been boosted with the provision of computer software, valued approximately $131.85 million (US$1.13 million), by Microsoft Jamaica.

The donation, which is the largest to date made by the technology solutions firm in the English-speaking Caribbean, entails Office 2013 Pro Plus applications, comprising: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access, which are utilized by global enterprises and companies. These will be uploaded on the approximately 800 state-of-the-art computers slated to be installed within the next three months at all of the JLS’ 127 public libraries islandwide and some mobile facilities, under the project, titled: ‘JLS: Using Technology to Empower Individuals and Communities for Development’.

Jamaican $123 Million for ICT in public library project

Author: By Athaliah Baker
Title: Project to Increase Access to ICT Services Receives $123 Million
Date published: March 3, 2015
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/project-increase-access-ict-services-receives-123-million/

Abstract:
The article reports on the allotment of $123 million in the 2015/16 Estimates of Expenditure by Jamaican Parliament to a project to increase access to information and communications technology (ICT) services. Part of this project involves increasing Jamaica's public library usage and installing computer and other technologies within public libraries. Other details of the project are mentioned including activities to be undertaken such as the completion of a needs assessment survey and baseline study, as well as the training of 45 staff members. Also mentioned is that the project is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and implemented by the Ministry of Education.

Excerpt:

The Technology to Empower Individuals and Communities for Development Project also aims to provide ICT and other training programmes to promote personal, organisational and national development; and provide new and enhanced programmes and services responsive to the needs of users, non-users and stakeholders.

It also seeks to promote programmes and services to existing and potential users to increase library usage; and create greater awareness of the value of public libraries in communities to build local and national support. 

For the new fiscal year, it is anticipated that computers and other technologies will be installed in all 128 libraries islandwide; training programmes for staff and users will be implemented; and marketing campaigns will be conducted.

Jamaican public libraries get children books on epilespy

Author: By Rochelle Williams
Title: NHF Provides $51.8 Million in Drug Subsidy for Epileptics
Date published: February 11, 2015
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/nhf-provides-51-8-million-drug-subsidy-epileptics/

Abstract:
Article reports on the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) receiving 500 children books on epilepsy from  the National Health Fund (NHF). The NHF Chief Executive Officer, Everton Anderson, is reported stating that this donation of books is intended at changing cultural attitudes towards persons living with epilepsy. Also stated is the total cost of the books donated to the island-wide public library network.

Excerpt:

Mr. Anderson was addressing a function held on February 9, at the Jamaica Library Service’s (JLS) Tom Redcam Drive headquarters in Kingston, where 500 children’s books on epilepsy were handed over to the JLF. 

The NHF provided $360,000 for the purchase of the books, which will be distributed through the JLS’ island-wide library network.

Entitled ‘Way to Go, Flash,’ the publications are intended to raise awareness of epilepsy and help to lower the stigma against children and adults with the condition. Epilepsy is one of 15 chronic health conditions covered by the NHF.

Jamaican public libraries to benefit from grant for ICT services

Author: Balford Henry, Observer Senior Staff Reporter

Title: Bill and Melinda Gates give J$226m to Jamaica’s ICT development
Date published: November 26, 2014
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Bill-and-Melinda-Gates-give-J-226m-to-Jamaica-s-ICT-development

Abstract:

The article reports on the Minister of Education, Ronald Thwaites, announcing to the House of Representatives in Parliament the details of a grant by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. According to the article, the donation is earmarked at providing US$2 million (approximately J$226 million) to finance increased access to ICT services for Jamaicans via the islandwide public library service. The reporter details the amount of the grant and the projected cost of the project as well as the expected beneficiaries. It is also mentioned that part of the grant will be spent on marketing public library services and promoting advocacy for the importance and value of the public library to Jamaica's national development.

Excerpt:

The project costs US$3.1 million (approximately J$350 million). The Jamaican government will donate the other US$1.1 million (approximately $123 million)
Thwaites said that beneficiaries will include users of public libraries islandwide, including marginalized groups, senior citizens, persons from rural and inner-city communities, the unemployed and persons with disabilities, including the visually impaired, and ordinary citizens seeking information about self-improvement.
“The marketing plan, which envisages a major campaign to make Jamaicans aware of the project and its deliverables, and will increase the number of library users, is being finalized for implementation commencing in November,” he said.

Jamaican school library gets $2 million makeover

Title: Donald Quarrie High gets $2m library makeover

Date published: Monday, October 06, 2014

Source: Jamaica Observer
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Donald-Quarrie-High-gets--2m-library-makeover_17691945


Abstract:

Article reports on the Jamaica Private Power Company's (JPPC) contribution of a refurbished library and computers valued at $2 million to the Donald Quarrie High School.

Reported speech from the general manager of the JPPC, Ingrid-Christian Baker, provides the rationale for the firm's initiative. Also reported are statements from the Chief education officer in the Ministry of Education, Dr Grace McLean, encouraging students to make the best use of the resources and commending the JPPC for its community outreach.

Details are also given about the nature of the library's refurbishing work done including:

• re-polishing shelves
• constructing new pieces of furniture
• tiling the floor
• extending partitions that separate the adjoining computer lab
• applying fresh paint to the walls
• installing new air conditioning units and 
• providing new computers and a server system to be housed in the space

Excerpt:

STUDENTS at Donald Quarrie High School now have an added boost to the academic programme at the institution, thanks to the Jamaica Private Power Company (JPPC).
Last week the East Kingston-based power company handed over a refurbished library and computers valued at $2 million to the institution.

According to general manager of the JPPC, Ingrid-Christian Baker, the library refurbishing fits into the company's mandate of 'Empowering Dreams, Empowering Lives and Empowering Community'.

JA. Education Minister urges students to use libraries

Author: By Andrea Braham
Title: Students Urged to Make Use of Libraries
Date published: April 8, 2014
Source: Jamaica Information Service
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/students-urged-make-use-libraries/

Abstract:
The article reports on the opening ceremony of the Reading Day celebration of the Western Union sponsored National Reading Week 2014. Reported specifically is statements from the Education Minister, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, discussing the need for students to both read and use libraries. Also reported is more information about the week's activities, as well as statements from the Chief Executive Officer, GraceKennedy Financial Group, Courtney Campbell, speaking about the theme of Reading Week 2014 and why it was chosen and the importance of reading and its link to education. It is also mentioned that during the National Reading Week, that senior executives from GraceKennedy, their agents, private individuals, celebrities, media personalities will visit select schools to read to students and donate books to libraries.


Excerpt: 

Education Minister, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, is encouraging students to read and make good use of libraries across the island, to help in advancing their education.

“If you don’t have a good library in your school, then ask for the library service to send you a book mobile,” the Minister said.

Rev. Thwaites was addressing the opening ceremony of Reading Day, at the Allman Town Primary School, in Kingston, on April 8. The day is part of the Western Union National Reading Week 2014, which runs from April 7-11 under the theme: ‘A Great Reader Makes A Great Leader’.

Ground breaking for the Accompong Town Primary and Junior High School library and media centre

Author: Paul Williams
Title: Mystic Bowie Delivering The Goods In Accompong Town
Date published: January 11, 2014
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20140111/news/news1.html

Abstract:

Article reports on an event to break ground for the building of a library and media centre for a Jamaican school, commemorating the historical events particularly significant to the Jamaican Maroon community. Background information is provided on the major sponsor or donor for the project, Mystic Bowie and the set of events that lead to the initiative. The article also reports on Bowie's motivation for sponsoring the project. Further provided is information about the ground breaking event, including a list of some of the persons attending, including Coral B. Barnett, principal of the Accompong Town Primary and Junior High School and Director of Culture in the Ministry of Youth and Culture, Dahlia Harris. Other information provided in the article deals with some minor details about the building itself and some of the equipment and resources that it is expected to house.



Excerpt:

ACCOMPONG TOWN, St Elizabeth:One year ago, Mystic Bowie, a producer, reggae singer, and international recording artiste, who was born Fitzroy Alexander Campbell in Accompong Town, St Elizabeth, in the presence of members of the Government and Opposition, broke ground for the building of a library and media centre at the Accompong Town Primary and Junior High School. This took place as part of the Accompong Maroons' observance of Captain Cudjoe's birthday and the 275th anniversary of the signing of the peace treaty with the British.

In speaking with Rural Xpress at the time, the Connecticut, United States, resident said, "I am 100 per cent committed, if not, I would be wasting my time." As a member of the Council of Overseas Maroons, he was approached by the council's president/secretary, Coral B. Barnett, for assistance to the school and the community.

The building of the aforementioned complex was the main assistance Bowie suggested, and from all indications, he is delivering on his promise, and stage one of the project is now complete. It consists of the main hall for the library and computer clusters, an administrative office, and a rooftop space for the hosting of special events. The special-events level wasn't part of the original plan, but it will be part of the fundraising outreach to maintain the centre.

Jamaica Library Service gets grant for ICT resources

Title: Jamaica Library Service gets grant to boost ICT resources
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date published: Saturday, December 21, 2013
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Jamaica-Library-Service-gets-grant-to-boost-ICT-resources

Abstract:
The article announces the funding of US$2 million to the Jamaica Library Services (JLS) for
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources and projects in Jamaican public libraries. The article also reports comments from both Education Minister, Ronald Thwaites and Paul Lalor, Chairman of the Board of the JLS, expressing appreciation for the award of the grant and indicating the implications of what the funding will allow the JLS to accomplish in Jamaica's public libraries.


Excerpt:
KINGSTON, Jamaica - The Jamaica Library Service (JLS) received a grant of US$2 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation based in Seattle, United States of America, which will, along with co-funding of US$1.1 million from the Jamaican Government, help the JLS to boost Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources in public libraries.

The funds will also enable JLS to provide additional training for staff and users, enhance programmes and services and support a comprehensive advocacy and marketing campaign.


In July the foundation advised the JLS of the granting of the award for the charitable purpose to enrich lives and ultimately contribute to the achievement of the country’s Vision 2030, Jamaica the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.

Urban Jamaican secondary school gets new library/media centre

Author: Douglas McIntosh

Title: Campion Gets New Library/Media Centre
Date published:  25 October 2013
Source: Jamaica Information Service
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/leads-100/35422


Abstract:

This article announces the newly constructed library/media centre at an urban Jamaican secondary school. Mentioned in the article is the naming of the facility, some details of the infrastructure, the amount donated to construct it and the principal contributors to the construction project. The reporter also reports on the formal launch of the facility and the speeches by the Education Minister, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, Chairman of the Vision 2020 Campaign, under which the Centre’s development was carried out, Andrew Mahfood, and a representative from the family after which the facility was named. Both Mahfood and Adam Stewart who spoke on behalf of the family are reported as providing their comments about what they envision the new library will do for the school. Also reported are speeches from the Chairman of Campion’s Board, Anton Thompson, and the principal, Grace Baston, giving their appreciation for the facility and what they envision it will do for the students and the school.


Excerpt:

Campion College’s academic programme for its 1,450 enrolled students has been significantly strengthened by a newly built library/media centre at the institution’s Old Hope Road campus, in St. Andrew.

The facility, the Jonathan Stewart Library Media Centre, is named in honour of the late Campion College alumnus and son of hotelier and business mogul, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart.
Construction of the centre, which has been outfitted with a range of state-of-the-art information technology solutions and applications, was undertaken at a cost of US$1.4 million, of which Mr. Stewart’s family donated some US$350,000.

The remaining sum, inclusive of US$200,000 in gifts, was raised through various donations and fund-raising efforts by past students and friends of the school.

Heritage public library restoration commences in Trinidad and Tobago

Author: Rachael Espinet
Title: Old Public Library to be restored

Date published: Saturday, August 3 2013

Source: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,181677.html

 

Abstract:

This article reports on announcements made at a reception held by the Board of the National Library and Information Systems Authority (NALIS). Lucia Phillip, Executive Director of  NALIS, is reported as giving some historical background and significance to the Knox Street Library. The article provides further information about the historical background of the library, including when it was opened and when it declined due to poor structural building conditions.

 

The article however positively reports on the heritage restoration plans for the building. Jennifer Joseph, Vice-Chair of NALIS Board and the Chair of the Restoration Committee is reported as stating what the new library building after restoration will look like and the types of services that it will provide. Plans for the restored library include making hold collections and artifacts from the country’s leaders and for it to become both a research library and a heritage museum.

The reporter also reports on the donations received by the library from various Prime Ministers and presidents of Trinidad and Tobago,  as well pending donations of  photographs, audiovisual memorabilia, documents relating to speeches and government business and other general artifacts. Information is also given about the architectural style of the building. The architect responsible for the restoration, Rudylyn Roberts, is also named and the work done so far and expected due date of completion is highlighted.

The Education Minister, Dr Tim Gopeesingh, is also reported as affirming the Government's commitment towards allocating the necessary funds for the restoration and refurbishment of the building.

Professor Brinsley Samaroo, historian and a member of the Restoration Committee, is also mentioned as calling for donations of artifacts like letters, spectacles, books, journals, or any item belonging to a leader of Trinidad and Tobago for the library's collection.

  

Excerpt:

The old Trinidad Public Library on Knox Street, Port-of-Spain, will be fully restored and filled with a collection of historical artifacts from past and present presidents and prime ministers.

This was announced yesterday at a reception held by the Board of the National Library and Information Systems Authority (NALIS).

The restored library will hold collections and artifacts from the country’s leaders so that it will become both a state of the art research facility and a heritage museum.

 

Jamaican rural community to get new library and computer facility

Author: Garfield Angus
Title: Accompong to Get Library and Computer Centre
Source: Jamaica Information Service
Date published: January 8, 2013
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/leads/32680


Abstract:

The article reports on an event launching the construction for a library in a rural community in Jamaica. The  Minister of Education, Hon. Ronald Thwaites, in his reported speech at the ceremony, informs us about the investor or sponsor behind the project and the cost involved. Minister Thwaites also comments on the potential benefit of public and private partnership on the education of children. The time period of the construction and the exact location of the site is also announced.

The community library is to be built on the grounds of  Accompong Primary and Junior High School, and as such, the article also reports on the reaction of the school's principal, Garfield Rowe. Rowe reports in the speech the users that the facility will serve, which includes both the children and adults of the Accompong community.

Both the principal and Minister of Education are reported as praising the investor/sponsor of the project. The sponsor of project, Mystic Bowie, in turn is described by the article as a recording artiste and music producer, a resident of the area, who is living overseas. In his reported speech the sponsor states his personal vision for the the community and how he sees the project as fulfilling that vision by empowering the children of the community with needed educational resources.

Excerpt:

Work will get underway next month on the construction of a state-of-the-art library and computer centre in the community of Accompong in St. Elizabeth.

The project is being funded by recording artiste and music producer, Mystic Bowie, a resident of the area, who is living overseas.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Sunday (January 6), Minister of Education, Hon. Ronald Thwaites, said the project is significant for the Maroon community and lauded Mr. Bowie for investing more than $6 million (US$65,000) “in the building of education for his community”.

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."

UWI St. Augustine library acquires Eastern Caribbean Folk Recordings

Author: DAVID CUFFY

Title: UWI receives Alan Lomax and JD Elder Collection
Date Published: Wednesday, June 20, 2012
URL: http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2012-06-20/uwi-receives-alan-lomax-and-jd-elder-collection

Abstract:

The article records the acquisition of the Alan Lomax and Jacob D Elder Collection of Folk Recordings by the Alma Jordan Library of the University of the West Indies (UWI). The acquisition of these materials comes at the 50th anniversary of when the field recordings were made in 1962 by Alan Lomax, with assistance from JD Elder. The contents of the acquisitions are described and some background information on Lomax and Elder (the collectors) are provided.

Details of the ceremony celebrating the handover to the institution are described including the location of the event. Also mentioned is a concurrent event, the Caribbean and Latin America three-day 57th annual Seminar on the Acquisition of Latin American Library Materials  (SALALM) hosted by the UWI campus libraries, National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) and the Library Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT). A few details about the conference are provided including the mission of SALALM. 



Excerpt:

A symbolic handing over of The Alan Lomax and Jacob D Elder Collection of Folk Recordings to the Alma Jordan Library of the University of the West Indies (UWI) took place at Theatre 1, National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), Port-of-Spain, on Monday evening.

The event, A Cultural Journey—An Evening of History, Music and Dance, was in honour of participants from the Caribbean and Latin America attending the three-day 57th annual Seminar on the Acquisition of Latin American Library Materials  (SALALM) hosted by the UWI campus libraries, National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) and the Library Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT), which began at Hilton Trinidad and Conference on June 17.

SALALM’s primary missions are the control and dissemination of bibliographic information about all types of Latin American publications, and the development of library collections of Latin America in support of educational research. This year is the 50th anniversary of the field recordings made in 1962 by Alan Lomax, with assistance from JD Elder and according to Dr Rosita Sands of the Lomax Archive, it is a sweeping survey of the music of 12 islands, inclusive of Grenada, Anguilla, St Lucia, St Kitts/Nevis, Carriacou, Dominica, Martinique, St Barthelemey, Guadeloupe and Trinidad and Tobago.

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.

Belize National Library gets health science collection boost

Author/Reporter: Delahnie Bain
Title: PAHO and WHO add pages to the Library
Source: Channel5Belize
Date published: December 12, 2011
URL: http://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/64371

Abstract:


New health science publications donated to the Belize National Library Service & Information System (BNLSIS) by two agencies of the United Nations. The report outlines the scope of the collection/publications donated and the response of the librarian/library regarding the resources. Part of the report also mentions the audience that would benefit from the new donated collection. Finally the article ends on a note about pending negotiations for BNLSIS to access further electronic resources available.


Excerpt:

Two organizations of the United Nations this morning donated a heap of books to the national library service. The publications will spruce up the library’s health collection on a wide range of issues from bio-medical to technical literature that have been published by PAHO and the WHO. News Five’s Delahnie Bain also found out that the collection of publications will be available at libraries across the country.

There is a new collection of publications at the National Library Service, which puts an abundance of health information at the fingertips of every Belizean. Today PAHO/WHO officially handed over its full collection of health science publications at the Leo Bradley Library.

UWI libraries gets BBC Caribbean archives

Photographer: Garfield Robinson
Title: UWI gets BBC Caribbean archives
Source: Jamaican Observer
Date Published: Sunday, November 06, 2011
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/career/UWI-gets-BBC-Caribbean-archives_10097323

Abstract:
The article is actually just a caption to a photograph, that captures or documents the official handing over ceremony for the BBC Caribbean Service 1988 to 2011 archives .

Excerpt:

University of the West Indies (UWI) librarian Jennifer Josephs and UWI vice chancellor E Nigel Harris show off the BBC Caribbean 1988 to 2011...The occasion was the official handover ceremony for the archives, held Friday at the universities multifunction room.

UWI acquires and provides access to BBC Caribbean Archive 1988-2011

Title: BBC Caribbean Archive 1988-2011

Source: DSpace development team at the The Alma Jordan Library of The University of the West Indies at St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
tel. 1 (868) 662 2002
URL: http://uwispace.sta.uwi.edu/dspace/handle/2139/11134

Abstract:
The University of West Indies has acquired the holdings of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Caribbean Service archives of recordings for the period 1988-2011. The context behind the acquisition is provided. Information is also provided about the scope of the collection and the types of subjects and content it covers. Information is also provided about how to access the archived recordings.

Excerpt:

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Caribbean Service donated its archive of recordings to The University of the West Indies (UWI) after it ceased broadcasting on March 25, 2011. This archive of audio recordings covers the period 1988-2011, when the BBC Caribbean Service operated mainly as a news and current affairs department. During this period, the flagship programmes of the department were the BBC Caribbean Report (morning and evening drivetime editions) and Caribbean Magazine, a programme that reflected the human face of the news agenda as well as reporting on the Caribbean region's music, literature, and other cultural issues. The BBC Caribbean Archive at The UWI provides a unique contemporary record of the political, social cultural and economic issues pertaining to the Caribbean, and will therefore serve an a very important facility for research regionally and extra-regionally.

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”. 

NCB Foundation donates to Mountain View Primary School library

Title: NCB shares passion for reading
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Sunday | February 20, 2011
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110220/arts/arts6.html

Abstract:
Article reports on a local bank's initiative towards promoting reading in a Jamaican primary school. At the end of the article, NCB Foundation's contribution to the school in terms of reading and library material and equipment is mentioned.


Excerpt:

Through the NCB Foundation's 'Love for Reading' programme, the students from grades one to six sat in groups and listened keenly as NCB employees engaged and encouraged them to read.

The 'Love for Reading' programme was developed to ignite a passion and love for reading among students at the primary-school level. The programme includes NCB employees becoming personally involved by conducting reading sessions with students at primary schools islandwide with an aim to encourage them on the importance of reading. Having previously invested and partnered with Mountain View Primary School it was a natural fit for NCB to return to the school to put to work the investment.

The NCB Foundation donated $80,000 worth of books, a computer and a multimedia projector to upgrade and improve the library facilities at the school. This was done in an effort to provide an environment for the students to learn and improve their reading skills.

Barbados school library gets books from US embassy and BYAP

Author: CT
Title: US, BYAP boost St George’s library
Source: Barbados Nation News
Date published: Tue, January 25, 2011 - 12:00 AM
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/articles/view/us-byap-boost-st-georges-library/

Abstract:
This article reports on the US embassy and the Barbados Youth Action Programme (BYAP)'s gift of books to a school library in Barbados. The quantity of the donation and the general subject matter of the books are mentioned.

Excerpt:

THE UNITED STATES EMBASSY to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean and the Barbados Youth Action Programme (BYAP) yesterday teamed up to give a book boost to the St George Secondary School.

The school received 56 books, a donation that was coordinated by the BYAP and much appreciated by librarian of the school, Sonia Callender.