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’.

New library facility in rural Jamaica

Author: Sharon Earle

Title: Over 600 Residents Benefitting From Skills Training
Source: Jamaica Information Service (JIS)
Date published: May 17, 2015
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/600-residents-benefitting-skills-training/

Abstract:
The article reports on the the official opening ceremony for the Clarks Town Branch Library in rural Jamaica. The cost of and the partnership behind the construction of the library is identified. The construction of the library is identified as being a partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) that has been built under the Sugar Transformation Programme.

Reported is speech from the official opening ceremony by the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Derrick Kellier. Minister Kellier is reported as stating that rural libraries such as the Clarks Town Branch Library will prove useful to current and future community-based training programmes.


Also reported is speech from the Director General of the JLS, Karen Barton. She is reported as expressing appreciation for the joint efforts of all stakeholders in completing the library building. Background details regarding the accommodation for the Clarks Town Branch Library is provided, including the efforts of the Clarks Town Community Development Committee (CDC) to secure grant funding to build the new library on lands leased from the Sugar Company of Jamaica Holding limited (SCJ). Barton is further stated as identifying partnerships between the Clarks Town CDC, SCJ Holding Limited, the STU and JLS and commenting about how over the years such assisted partnerships have helped the Library Service in accomplishing its mission.

Excerpt:

The library which was constructed at a cost of $18 million through a partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) is among five libraries that have been built under the Sugar Transformation Programme.

...In addition, Minister Kellier said rural libraries such as the Clarks Town Branch Library will prove useful to current and future community-based training programmes.

Meanwhile, Director General of the JLS, Karen Barton expressed appreciation for the joint efforts of all stakeholders in getting the building for the library completed.

Jamaican rural community gets two new libraries

Author: [ST JAMES, Jamaica Information Service (JIS)]
Title: Two Trelawny communities get new libraries
Source: The Jamaica Observer
Date published: Sunday, May 17, 2015

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Two-Trelawny-communities-get-new-libraries

Abstract:

The article announces the opening of the Falmouth Infant School Library and the Clarks Town Branch Library in rural Jamaica. The cost of and the source of funds responsible for establishing the facilities are reported. Also reported are facts about the newly constructed facilities including what they offer in terms of equipment.

Speeches are reported from the official opening by Minister Derrick Kellier and Minister of Education, Rev Ronald Thwaites. Minister Kellier is reported as arguing that public libraries have become even more relevant and possess a critical role to play in Jamaica's development by providing access to crucial information sources to foster proper and wise decision-making. Minister Thwaites is reported as urging residents to take care of and make full use of the library facilities and resources.

Excerpt:

The newly constructed Falmouth Infant School Library will serve 220 students and is equipped with reading and information material, new technologies including electronic games, interactive software, multimedia projector, and a television.

In Clarks Town, the multi-purpose facility features a research centre, computer room, meeting room, kitchenette, store room, an office, lunch room, staff and public bathrooms.

In addition to providing traditional library services, the centre will also offer free computer and Internet access, as well as adult literacy, computer training and the High School Equivalency Diploma programme.

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 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.

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.

Jamaica Library Service to benefit from special grant funding

Author: Latonya Linton
Title: Library Service Receives Boost from Gates Foundation
Source: Jamaica Information Service
Date published:  May 8, 2014
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/library-service-receives-boost-gates-foundation/


Abstract:
Article reports on news that the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) has received US$2 million in grant funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. A synopsis is provided of how the funds will be used, namely to implement  the ‘JLS: Using Technology to Empower Individuals and Communities for Development’ project. A synopsis of the project is provided. According to the author the project will boost public access to information resources mainly through the installation of hardware and software. The article indicates how many libraries are to benefit from the initiative, how many computer systems will be installed as well as the commencement date of the project.

This news was announced in the Minister of Education's, the Hon Rev Ronald Thwaites, address to the House of Representatives during his contribution to the 2014/15 Sectoral Debate on May 7. During his address, the Minister is also reported as announcing that the Jamaica Library Service is to also benefit from grant funding from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries under the Sugar Transformation Programme. The article also outlines that this grant funding is earmarked to enhance library services in select sugar dependent communities. Specifically, these projects include constructing and equipping new infant school libraries at the St. John’s and Savanna-la-mar Infant Schools in Westmoreland and Falmouth Infant School in Trelawny.
The Minister is also reported as informing the House of a planned upgrade to the Alexandria Branch Library in St. Ann through the assistance of the Government of Japan.

Excerpt:

Under this initiative, 127 public libraries will benefit from the Project; six mobile libraries will be provided; approximately 843 state-of-the-art computer systems will be installed; and senior citizens, persons from rural communities, the unemployed and persons with disabilities will be direct beneficiaries. The Project will be launched in November 2014.

Meanwhile, the Jamaica Library Service is also the beneficiary of grant funding from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries under the Sugar Transformation Programme totaling $58 million.

This will be used to enhance library services in select sugar dependent communities. The projects include the construction and equipping of new infant school libraries, at the St. John’s and Savanna-la-mar Infant Schools in Westmoreland and Falmouth Infant School in Trelawny.

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 alumni association plans fundraising concert for digital library project

Title: Classical duo to perform at Mico - School to use concert funds to digitise library
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date published: April 16, 2013
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130416/ent/ent2.html

Abstract:
This article reports on a fundraising event planned by the Mico Old Student Association (MOSA). The fundraiser is a concert featuring two Jamaican international classical vocal artistes. Funds raised from ticket purchases  for the concert are to go towards digitisation of the archives and scholarly collections of The Mico's Renford Shirley Library. The project is estimated at $10-million. When completed, the digital library will feature a gallery of historical photographs, early prints, as well as newspaper and journal articles. The new digital library will also provide users with the opportunity to tag and add metadata. The college librarian, Vinell Spied, is briefly reported as giving a statement on the importance of this digital library initiative.

Excerpt:


Two of Jamaica's internationally acclaimed classical artistes, Curtis Watson and Pauline Forrest-Watson, will be the featured performers at the Mico Old Student Association's (MOSA) fund-raising concert entitled 'Evening of Classical Ballads', scheduled to take place at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel on Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

The concert is being held under the distinguished patronage of Sir Kenneth and Lady Hall.

While patrons attending this event will get another opportunity to enjoy the musical mastery of the classical couple, they will also be contributing to MOSA's efforts to preserve and digitise the extensive historical archives and scholarly collections of The Mico's Renford Shirley Library, to create a more user-centred information portal that can be shared locally and globally.

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.

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”.

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.

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.

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."

CHASE spends $21.5 million upgrading Jamaican libraries & archives

Author: KARYL WALKER Crime/Court Desk co-ordinator walkerk AT jamaicaobserver.com
Title: CHASE spends $21.5 million upgrading libraries, archives
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2009

URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/160696_CHASE-spends--21-5-million-upgrading-libraries--archives

Abstract:
This article reports on a number initiatives funded by the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund. The funds disbursed for 2009 amounted to $21.5 million for projects such as the upgrading of some 11 libraries and archives. Special mention is made of a project to digitise the historical of the former prime minister Edward Seaga. A brief report is also made of the digitization of some of the audio visual tapes of the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation. Future plans to fund a project of digitization at the Institute of Jamaica is also mentioned.


Excerpt:

Digitisation of the historical records of former prime minister Edward Seaga.

Heaven said the fund was working on digitalising the records of not only Seaga, but would bring the entire library and archive system into the modern era.

He said the former state-owned Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation has recorded on outdated audio visual tapes important historical events which needed to be modernised in order to preserve the nation's history for generations to come.

"We are currently at the Institute of Jamaica updating their archives to make it current. You will also be able to see Mr Seaga's first budget presentation which was on a yellow sheet of paper. These will be accessible to not just the university but the entire population," Heaven said.

Guyana plans to establish a Peace Resource centre with library

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

Source: The Guyana Chronicle Online

Date: December 20, 2009

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


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

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


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

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

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

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

National Commercial Bank Foundation Upgrades Jamaican High School library

Title: Upgraded computer centre for Titchfield High School
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Monday, November 2, 2009
URL: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20091102/news/news3.html

Abstract
The article reports on the results of the work done by a principal, school board, school librarian and other staff, in writing a proposal for an improved library and electronic resource facility. Their efforts lead to the National Commercial Bank (NCB) Foundation sponsoring the upgrade of their facilities. Now due to their pursuit of their dream and vision to address the dissatisfaction with their library facility, they now have a well equipped library with "air conditioning, soft, comfortable chairs and Internet-ready computers".

Excerpt

Titchfield High School recently opened the doors to its newly upgraded computer and library centre in the presence of students, teachers, past students and members of the Port Antonio, Portland, community.

The project, which was funded by the National Commercial Bank (NCB) Foundation, began in 2007 and will benefit the school's population of 1,900 students. The new upgrades to the centre include an additional 12 computers, chairs, tables and bookshelves.

"For many years, not many persons were satisfied with the facility we had as a library," said Richard Thompson, principal of Titchfield High School. "One such dissatisfied person was Mrs Ivy McKenzie, our late principal. She spoke glowingly of a comfortable, spacious environment for her students to do research, with information available at their fingertips."