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.

 

Trinidad & Tobago Minister endorses restoring old library building

Author: Michelle Loubon
Title: Education Minister lauds library restoration plans
Date Published: Sunday, September 30, 2012
Source: Trinidad and Tobago Guardian
URL: http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2012-09-30/education-minister-lauds-library-restoration-plans

Abstract:
Article reports on a speech by Education Minister Tim Gopeesingh that discussed the restoration plans for the old Public Library at Knox Street, Port-of-Spain and the significance of such a restoration to Trinidad and Tobago. This speech reportedly took place at the launch of book entitled A Tale From The Old Library Vol 2: An Historical Record of the Public Library. The report also provides background information about this book, in terms of  its content and the authorship behind its publication.

Excerpt:

Education Minister Tim Gopeesingh says restoration of the old Public Library at Knox Street, Port-of-Spain, will foster a much needed appreciation of T&T’s history among the younger generation. He made this comment while delivering the feature address at the launch of A Tale From The Old Library Vol 2: An Historical Record of the Public Library, on Friday.

Gopeesingh said: “We live in a time when libraries and their historical significance run the risk of being lost in this age of technology. The fact that this project falls under the National Patriotism Month—and while we celebrate our 50th anniversary—makes it more worthwhile and relevant.” He added, “We will be fulfilling that very glaring need to preserve the memories and legacies of all our great patriots, past and present, who offered to their nation their leadership, skills and achievements at the highest levels.”