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 gets new Director General

Title: Karen Barton appointed new director general of Jamaica Library Service
Date published: November 10, 2014
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=56517

Abstract:
This brief article announces the appointment of Karen Barton as the new Director General of Jamaica Library Service. It further outlines some of her qualifications and experience that she brings to the position as well as provides some background information on the Jamaica Library Service.

Excerpt:

The University of the West Indies graduate has more than 30 years experience in the Jamaica Library Service.  

She has written several papers on librarianship in Jamaica. 

The Jamaica Library Service has responsibility for 124 public libraries and 926 school libraries throughout the island.

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 public librarian to be honoured for nation building service

Author: Shelly-Ann Irving

Title: Retired Librarian to be Honoured October 20
Date published:  October 17, 2014
Source: Jamaica Information Service
URL: http://jis.gov.jm/retired-librarian-honoured-october-20/


Abstract:

The article provides the glimpse into the working experiences of Patricia Cuff, a retired librarian who began working at the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) in 1965. It gives some historical outlook of the beginnings of the public library service infrastructure. The article also contains background information about the JLS regarding its present, especially as seen through the eyes of Mrs. Cuff.

The article also indicates that Mrs. Cuff, after having contributed over 43 years of unbroken service to the JLS, will  be recognized for her contribution to nation building. According to the article, Mrs. Cuff will receive the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service rendered to the Jamaica Library Service, at King’s House on Monday, October 20, National Heroes’ Day.

The article outlines some major initiatives by Mrs. Cuff for the JLS including:

• negotiating the purchase of land for the JLS
• major input in establishing private sector partnership in establishing reading corners and homework for the nation's children 
• involvement in planning and staging the JLS National Reading Competition.and
• involvement in leadership at several levels within JLS

Also reported is speech from the Director General of the JLS, Karen Barton, giving her approval for Mrs. Cuff’s recognition.

Finally, the article provides background information about the nature of the award that Mrs. Cuff will be receiving.


Excerpt:

When Patricia Cuff began working at the Jamaica Library Service in 1965, it was completely different from what it is today. 

At that time, the library in your community would not have been erected just yet, as Regional Directors were busy negotiating library sites with the church and private land owners. 

“People would give us land to build libraries; at one point St. Elizabeth had nine branch libraries and  eight were on donated land. I can recall several days when I was at work, in stockings, and someone would call me to look at a site for a library in deep rural areas, sometimes in bushes and before I knew it, I was off to do a site visit. We would get these properties rent-free or at pepper-corn rental, because the owners believed in education,” Mrs. Cuff recounts.

Antigua's National Public Library reopens

Author: Kadeem Joseph
Title: Library opens again
Date published: September 1, 2014  
Source: The Daily Observer Ltd.
URL: http://antiguaobserver.com/library-opens-again/



Abstract:
The article announces the reopening of the National Public Library of Antigua. The Director of the Public Library, Ryllis Mannix, is further reported as indicating that while the library is opened for access to books for research purposes, the library operations are being hampered by inoperable computers systems to support the circulation process. The article also reports Mannix as outlining some of the other challenges that the library faced in getting ready for reopening. The article further provides information pertaining to the new facility and the services that the library offers, as well as it opening hours.






Excerpt:
After waiting decades, the public can now access the National Public Library, which will be officially opened today, albeit limitedly.


Director of the Public Library Ryllis Mannix told OBSERVER media while the library will not be “100 percent operational,” the public would be able to, at least, access books for research purposes.
Since the automated borrow-and-return system is not yet working, Mannix said her team is working towards creating a manual record keeping process, in order to enable loaning of books to the public.
Library officials are hoping to establish a manual record keeping process, in lieu of the computer system, which they hope will be functional as early as today.


The 70 to 80 computer systems for public use are still not operational, however, the library chief said technicians are working to address these issues soonest.

Library Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) defends new Chaguanas Public Library

Author: ZARA BRIDGEMOHAN GRANT

Title: LATT: Give library to people of Central
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian
Date published: Sunday, July 20 2014
URL: http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,197897.html


Abstract:
The article reports on a statement by the Library Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) against the Government of Trinidad and Tobago using the new Chaguanas Public Library completed facility for a Judicial Complex. The article reports that the reconfiguration of the Chaguanas Library  into a Judicial Complex was first hinted at by Chaguanas Mayor Gopual Boodan at a breakfast meeting hosted by the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce on June 24. At that event, Boodan revealed that a Cabinet appointed team was convened on the suggestion by the Chaguanas Lawyers’ Association, the Chamber and other organisations for the transformation of the still under construction Chaguanas library into that of a Judicial Complex. Planning Minister Dr Bhoe Tewarie further confirmed the plan, further revealing that the new Chaguanas Public Library is to be re-purposed into the Judicial Complex to deal with a backlog of 7,000 cases before the Chaguanas Magistrates’ Court. It is within this context that the article reports LATT's arguments against such plans as well as excerpts of its statements in favour of the new library facility remaining as a facility for public library service.

Excerpt:

The Library Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) is calling on Government, and other stakeholders, to have the new Chaguanas Public Library completed and delivered to the people of central Trinidad and not use it for a Judicial Complex.

LATT, in a full page advertisement in Friday’s newspaper said the library building at Railway Road, Chaguanas has been in the works over 17 years and while it understood the need for accommodation for the judiciary, the public library service ought not to bear the backlash of any such inadequacy.

Rural Jamaican public library holds reading championship event

Author: Claudia Gardner

Title:Youngsters Excel In Hanover Parish Library Reading Competition
Date Published: July 12, 2014
Source: The Jamaica Gleaner
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20140712/western/western3.html

Abstract:
The article reports on the Hanover Parish Library's Annual National Reading Championship in Lucea, which was held under the theme 'Read: Anywhere, anytime, any book'. At that event, five reading champions were awarded. Background information on the National Reading competition and how it is adjudicated is included. Also mentioned are some of the sponsors of the event.
Excerpt:

The National Reading Competition was launched in 1988 as part of the Jamaica Library Service's 40th anniversary celebrations. The aim is to enable persons of all age groups to enjoy the benefits of reading, develop reading skills, facilitate exposure to highly rated literature, encourage reading habits, and reinforce reading as a positive and fun activity.

A mix of oral and written elements such as letters, book reviews, and puzzles were judged. The entrants' ability to read, understand and interpret set books and excerpts from books were the main determinants for selecting the respective winners.

Sponsors of the event included Dolphin Cove, Family Care Pharmacy, Grand Palladium Resort, Hanover Cooperative Credit Union, Jamaica National Building Society, Ken's Haberdashery, Kool Runnings Adventure Park, Neveast Office Depot, Sandals Resorts, Seaview Pharmacy, Snave Bookstore, Stationery Office Supplies, RIU Negril, the Rotary Club of Lucea, the Lucea branch of the National Commercial Bank, and Hoson's Food Fair.

Parents Reading with Babies and Toddlers' initiative on at Jamaican public library

Author: Alicia Forrest, Gleaner Writer
Title: St Catherine Parish Library promotes family reading
Date published: Saturday | May 24, 2014
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20140524/life/life1.html

 

Abstract:

The article reports on the 'We Likkle, but We Tallawah: Parents Reading with Babies and Toddlers' initiative on at the St Catherine Parish Library.

The article reports on some highlights of the event as well as the Librarian, Shana-Lee Coley-Smith, discussing the positive outcome of the programme on the children and parents. Some highlights of the vents reported are:

·         Clarabell Solomon, distinguished secretary of the Kiwanis Club of Linstead, stressing the importance of parents listening to reading

·         A parent presenting on parenting tips, as well as on the Child Care and Protection Act, highlighting the rights of the child and the responsibilities that every parent has towards his/her child.

Also mentioned is the disclosure made by Coley-Smith that the programme has received some support from the Jamaica National Building Society Foundation.

Excerpt:

 

The 'We Likkle, but We Tallawah: Parents Reading with Babies and Toddlers' initiative has been going on at the St Catherine Parish Library since November 2012, and is held every third Saturday. As part of activities, parents of children from newborn to five years old read aloud to their children.


Librarian Shana-Lee Coley-Smith said that she has seen the impact that the programme has had on children and parents. She said: "The children interact more with the books, and they are motivated to read. For the parents, it helps them to help their children." She continued: "We have received testimonials from the parents, and overall feedback has been good."

She disclosed that she expects the programme to continue and get better, given that the Jamaica Library Service (JLS) has received a boost from the Jamaica National Building Society Foundation.

 

Rural Jamaican public library stages first reading competition for boys

Author: Alicia Sutherland
Title: 'Boys who read will lead'
Source: Jamaica Observer
Date published: Monday, May 05, 2014  
URL: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/results/-Boys-who-read-will-lead-_16602614

Abstract:
This news article reports on a reading competition for Grade 4 boys put on by the Manchester Parish Library. The winners of the competition are announced and background information about the purpose of the competition is given. The sponsors of the event are mentioned. It is also reported that this year was the first, for the Boy's Reading Day event.

The article reports speech from the winning school's senior teacher, Eileen Chantiloupe, who makes
mention of the refurbishing of a school library and a resource centre with computers for Richmond Primary School.

Lorraine McLean, the Director of the Jamaica Library Service in Region 5 (Manchester and St Elizabeth), is also reported in sharing her views on the usefulness of information and communication technologies in teaching boys and her anticipation for the implementation of proposed plan of the ministry of science and technology for the distribution of electronic tablets in schools. The article also reports McLean's outlining other services and programmes of the Jamaica Library Service including being the largest provider of free Internet service to the public, the National Reading Competition, Children's Hour on Fridays and a homework programme at selected branch libraries in Region 5.


Development officer at the constituency office, Trishanna Archer, is reported as praising the Jamaica Library Service for 'a long history of making connections, showcasing love, care and appreciation for communities' as well as for the boy's reading competition initiative.


Excerpt:

The event has been taking place for the past six years in an effort to encourage Grade 4 boys to develop a positive attitude to reading and to improve their results in the Grade four Literacy Test.

Director of the Jamaica Library Service in Region 5 (Manchester and St Elizabeth) Lorraine McLean told Jamaica Observer Central that she was particularly proud of Richmond Primary because she has seen their growth from "strength to strength".

Eileen Chantiloupe, a senior teacher at the school, said that the children are of "mixed ability" and the strategy used in teaching is to "meet them where they are".

Currently, students are engaged in storytelling, poetry writing and dramatisation.

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.

Antigua and Barbuda gets new building for national public library

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

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

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

Excerpt:

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

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

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.

Caribbean librarian honoured for contribution to literacy

Title: Library recognises literacy and financial contributors
Date published: Thursday, 21 November 2013
Source: The Daily Herald
URL: http://thedailyherald.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=44251:library-recognises-literacy-and-financial-contributors-&catid=1:islands-news&Itemid=54

Abstract:
The article reports on what appears to be Philipsburg Jubilee Library's 90th anniversary celebrations awards ceremony. At this event, retired Caribbean librarian, Blanca Hodge, was honoured for her leadership at Philipsburg Jubilee Library and contribution to literacy. Others awarded at the event included supporters and regular users of the library including St. Maarten Museum Director Elsje Bosch.

Library Director, Monique Alberts is reported as providing attendees at the awards ceremony with a brief history of the library from its opening on November 23, 1923 to the present. The article also reports the name of other important invitees in attendance.

Excerpt:

PHILIPSBURG--Retired Philipsburg Jubilee Library head Blanca Hodge, who made the library's slogan "Reading is FUNdemental" popular, has proven that literacy is a family concern. She and her grandson Yshmael Marcelle were honoured by the library on Thursday evening for their commitment to literacy.

They were among several awardees at the recognition ceremony that kicked started the library's 90th anniversary celebrations.

Hodge, represented by her daughter Moira Marcelle-Hodge, received the 2013 President's Award. She was selected by Library President Chantal Schaminee-Ringeling for her "unflinching commitment to literacy" in St. Maarten and the wider Caribbean. Hodge made the library more than a place to read books and helped to develop the library from its humble beginnings on Back Street to the larger building it occupies now, Schaminee-Ringeling said.

Grenada Public Library to reopen in 2014

Title: Public Library to reopen early next year
Date published: Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Source: The Government of Grenada
URL: http://www.gov.gd/egov/news/2013/sep13/27_09_13/item_2/public_library_reopen_next_year.html

Abstract:
This announcement by the Government of Grenada reveals the relocation of the Grenada Public Library to the National Stadium and the resumption fo library services from this new location. The announcement also reveals the reason for the relocation as well as announces the repairs being undertaken to the library's original building.

Excerpt:

The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development would like to inform the public that negotiations are currently underway to resume the services of the Grenada Public Library.

The Library will be reopened at a new location, the National Stadium, as the previous building is in need of extreme structural repair.

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.

 

Shortwood Branch library's annual essay competition

Title: Oberlin Student Tops Shortwood Library Essay Competition
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
Date Published: Thursday, June 6, 2013
URL: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130606/lead/lead95.html

Abstract:
The article reports on a prize-giving award ceremony for an essay competition. At the event a secondary school student receives an award for her submission  to the Shortwood Branch Library's Annual Essay Competition held at the Shortwood Branch Library, St Andrew. Both excerpts of the speeches of the winning student and the librarian are reported. The student comments on her emotions at winning the award as well as summarizes what her essay was about, whereas the librarian discusses the purpose and rationale behind the competition and its theme. Colleen Mignott, the librarian also mentions that the programme was outreach to the community and provides background information including the length of time the essay competition has been in operation.

Excerpt:

Colleen Mignott, librarian at the Shortwood Branch Library, noted that the theme was inspired by the recognition that, as children begin to define their own ideals such as human rights, equality, honour, and justice, they often seek to identify heroes who symbolise the qualities and ambitions that they themselves aspire for.

"We thought that children use such ideals to define themselves, so we wanted to see them bring that out in their current-day heroes, not only the ones that are gone such as Marcus Garvey and Norman Manley, as there are several that are among us today. Some even wrote about their teachers as their heroes, and that is really good," Mignott said.

She also stated that the competition is a part of the library's community outreach programme.
"We like to consider ourselves as stakeholders in the education process as a library service, especially as a public library. So in doing this, we tried to help the children to develop their writing skills," she said.