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.

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.

Dominica Library and Information Service Observes 2011 Library Week

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


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


EXCERPT:

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

NALIS encourages public into Library again

Author: RESHMA BAAL
Title: NALIS encourages public into Library again
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
Date: Tuesday, September 28 2010
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,128229.html

Abstract:
The article reports on some of the public relations and promotional activities undertaken by the National Library and Information Systems Authority’s (NALIS’) that marked its celebration of National Library Week and to promote the library's programmes and service to the public.

Excerpt:

Encourage reading. This was the message at the National Library and Information Systems Authority’s (NALIS’) fourth annual Tale-a-Ton, which was held at the National Library in Port- of-Spain at the weekend.

The Tale-a-Ton launched NALIS’ week of celebration, known as National Library Week, which runs from September 26 to October 2.

This year’s theme of National Library Week is “Get into the library again.”

Public Relations and Marketing Manager of NALIS, Debbie Goodman, said the National Library week is being used to bring into focus, the libraries and how they work, “in terms of developing communities and people.”

Barbados opens a Museum Gift shop

Author: (CH)
Title: Museum shop opens
Source: Barbados Nation News
Date published: March 21, 2010.
URL: http://www.nationnews.com/news/business/museum-shop-copy-for-web

Abstract:
The article reports on the opening of a museum gift shop by the Barbados Museum & Historic Society to sell products that reflect Barbadian heritage. Funding behind the gift shop is also mentioned. Also new plans for the museum and its tours are highlighted by the marketing officer Christine Skeete.


Excerpt:

THE Barbados Museum & Historic Society officially threw open the doors of its spanking new gift shop at the Garrison...

"We will be adding more and more products as time goes on. Our intention is to work more closely with some of our artists to development products that will be customised for the museum [and] that will reflect Barbadian heritage and culture in a unique way. We are looking to make it a venue where both locals and visitors would feel they want to come back to get new and interesting products."

Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's new museum of Jamaican musical instruments

Title: New Look JCDC Unveiled
Source: Jamaica Information Service (JIS): KINGSTON
Date published: Friday, February 19, 2010
URL: http://www.jis.gov.jm/MYSC/html/20100219T090000-0500_22948_JIS_NEW_LOOK_JCDC_UNVEILED_TODAY.asp

Abstract:
Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) has a rebranding ceremony to celebrate its newly refurbished and renovated facilities. This article reports on that ceremony and some of the new changes and rebranding that the agency is experiencing. One such facility of interest that has been mentioned in the article's report is the JCDC's museum of traditional musical instruments and information on Jamaican traditional folk forms.


Excerpt:

In addition to a well appointed staff lounge, the JCDC offices have been refurbished to include a souvenir gift shop, and a museum of musical instruments and information on traditional folk forms.

Trinidad and Tobao launches QP Oval Cricket Heritage Museum

Author: KERN RAMLOCHAN
Title: QP Oval Cricket Heritage Museum a tourism ‘gem’
Source: Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday
Date published: Saturday, January 16 2010
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/sport/0,114281.html

Abstract:
The article reports on the official launch of the Queen Park's Oval Cricket Heritage Museum. It provides information about the collection and the information that the Cricket Museum houses.

Also, the article reports on some of the objects that the museum houses that have potential value for attracting visitors. In addition, the funding and support from the Ministry of Sport in Trinidad and Tobago is mentioned. Plans for future expansion and development of the museum are also discussed in the article

Expectations, hopes and aspirations for the museum to attract tourists are also expressed by the Minister of Tourism. Statements also reveal the target market segments for the museum. Also mentioned are the fees charged for museum tours.


Excerpt:

QUEEN’S Park Cricket Club has officially launched The Oval Cricket Heritage Museum at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port-of-Spain.

The Cricket Heritage Museum contains invaluable historical documents charting the progress of the Queen’s Park Cricket Club from their humble beginnings in 1891 when it was known as the “Sovereign” Cricket Club as well as West Indian cricket.

Thus far the Ministry of Sport has injected $300,000 to finance the museum as well as train the tour and site guides and produce tour manuals.

National Library of Guyana launches commemorative stamp

Author: Michelle Gonsalves

Title: National Library launches commemorative stamp

Source: Guyana Chronicle

Date: December 16, 2009

URL: http://www.guyanachronicle.com/ARCHIVES/archive%2016-12-09.html#Anchor-----------------47912

Abstract:
Article reports on the launch of a special commemorative stamp by the National Library of Guyana as part of its centennial celebrations. It is done in collaboration with the the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC). A description of the stamp is given, and the purpose for the launch of this stamp is expressed.

Essentially, the launch is a public relations or marketing exercise for National library. The hopes and aspirations for the stamp is to serve a means of stimulating people to know and want to know more about the institution.

The article also provides insight into the mission of the National Library of Guyana. Chairman of the National Library Committee Mr. Petamber Persaud, also recounts in brief, a part of the history and origin of the library.



Excerpt:

"The National Library continued its centennial celebrations with the launching of a special commemorative stamp yesterday, at its Church and Main Street, Georgetown, location.

Commemorative Stamp on display yesterday at the National Library.

Addressing attendees at the event, Post Master General Mr. Henry Dundas stated, “Documentation of such information on a stamp no doubt translates into informing persons throughout the world of our National Library and the fact that it has been in existence for a century now”.

Other attendees at the special occasion included Chairman of the National Library Committee Mr. Petamber Persaud, Chief Librarian Ms. Gillian Thompson, and Governor of the Bank of Guyana Mr. Lawrence Williams."

Jamaica's Agricultural Marketing Information System

Title: JAMIS Will Only be Beneficial if Utilized - Dr. Tufton

Source: KINGSTON, Jamaica Information Service (JIS)

Date Published: Thursday, December 17, 2009

URL: http://jis.gov.jm/MinAgriFish/html/20091217T150000-0500_22285_JIS_JAMIS_WILL_ONLY_BE_BENEFICIAL_IF_UTILIZED___DR__TUFTON.asp

Abstract:

The article reports the goals that the Minister of Agriculture hopes to achieve from the launching of the website for the Jamaican Agricultural Marketing Information System (JAMIS). One of the goals is to spur a more competitive sector, by providing customers with the market intelligence to know where to shop for produce for cheaper rates, as well as for suppliers to have a guide for pricing their produce.

Excerpt:

"JAMIS will post notice boards in main municipal markets to display weekly prices for farmers, higglers, and middlemen. Prices will also be posted at Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) parish offices. Additionally, text message services detailing prices, will soon be circulated to stakeholders to allow then to make strategic decisions, and to increase transparency in the marketplace."

Jamaica launches Web-based Agricultural Marketing Information System

Title: JAMIS Website Launched to Assist Stakeholders in Agricultural Sector

Source: KINGSTON, Jamaica Information Service (JIS)

Date Published: Monday, December 14, 2009

URL: http://jis.gov.jm/MinAgriFish/html/20091214T140000-0500_22249_JIS_JAMIS_WEBSITE_LAUNCHED_TO_ASSIST__STAKEHOLDERS_IN_AGRICULTURAL__SECTOR.asp


Abstract:

The article reports on the launch of new Website that will serve the information needs of Jamaican suppliers and buyers of farm produce. This new website is the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, to serve the information needs of the Jamaican market place for farm produce for prices of produce, as well as where to purchase the produce. The article also mentions two of the funding agencies behind the project, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and CDS Development Solutions. The URL of the website is also provided.

Evaluation:
In terms of funding agencies, there is a discrepancy between what is reported on the article and what is available on the Website. In the article CDS Development Solutions is reported. On the website, it is CDC Development Solutions and App Venture.

Excerpt:

All stakeholders in the agricultural industry are now able to equip themselves with vital pricing information, which will enable them to make better decisions about the sale and purchase of produce.

This has been made possible through the Jamaica Agricultural Marketing Information System (JAMIS) website, which was launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, today (December 14), at its Hope Gardens headquarters, in Kingston.

The web portal is part of the Ministry's ongoing thrust to modernise the sector through the application of technology. Its primary role is to collect, compile and disseminate agricultural data, which will aid producers, purchasers, consumers and distributors.

Branch library workers go door to door in Barbados

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


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

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

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


Excerpt:

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

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

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

Nuevo Battle Site Museum Opens in Jamaica

Title: Nuevo Battle Site Museum Opens with TEF Support
Source: Jamaica Information Service (JIS), Ocho Rios
Date Published: Sunday, July 19, 2009
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/indus_tourism/html/20090719T200000-0500_20473_JIS_NUEVO_BATTLE_SITE_MUSEUM_OPENS_WITH_TEF_SUPPORT.asp

Abstract:
The article records the commitment of the Executive Director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), Ian Neita, to supporting the operation of the Rio Nuevo Battle Site Museum. The article also speaks about the other organisations involved in the establishment of the museum, namely, the Rio Nuevo Battle Site Association, the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), and the Culture Health Arts Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund.

The plans for the future of the museum are also articulated. Mention is made about the potential local target market, students and teachers within the parish. However, mention is also made of the vision for the museum to also support heritage tourism.

Excerpt from Source:

"It was far from difficult for the TEF to respond to the request made by the Rio Nuevo Battle Site Association and the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) to add a museum to the site. While the battle site has always been suitable to host events or simply for people to view the grounds, the idea of a museum instantly elevated the site to a position of a world class attraction," Mr. Neita said. He noted that the establishment of the facility was ideal as it would give students and teachers the opportunity to enhance their educational experience through experiential learning.

"We are happy that in the Rio Nuevo Museum, visitors to Jamaica will have one new attraction to visit and leave with a rich history. We chose to invest in attractions such as this museum in order to protect Jamaica from competition. Islands like Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Barbados have a rich cultural heritage and so do we. They have capitalised on that heritage to build their tourism and so must we," he said.

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.