Sunday 23 November 2014

ACURIL 2015 Conference

Event:  The Association of Caribbean University, Research and Institutional Libraries (ACURIL) 45th conference (The region's annual flagship conference)

Location: Torarica Hotel & Casino, Suriname

Date: June 7-11, 2015


Theme:  COLLABORATIVE CONTINUING EDUCATION: LEARN, ACT AND INSPIRE

"Professional and Personal Development Opportunities for Lifelong Learning in Libraries, Archives and Museums in the Caribbean"

See URL for details: http://acuril.uprrp.edu/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=94:acuril-2014-bahamas

National Association of Libraries and Information Professionals established in St. Lucia

Title: NALIP to improve library processes
Date published: Wednesday, November 19, 2014
URL: http://www.govt.lc/news/nalip-to-improve-library-processes

Abstract: 

This news article announces the establishment of the Saint Lucia's National Association of Libraries and Information Professionals (NALIP). According to the article, this new library association has as its objectives to:

  • revise library legislation, 
  • provide training and development for its members
  • improve library processes on the island
  • develop partnerships and affiliations with national, regional and international associations to help boost the local association.

Further background is provided about NALIP including:

  • when it was formed (March 12 with the election of its executive body)
  • its establishment of five working committees—(editorial, fund raising/social, National Library and Information Week, professional development, and a public awareness and advocacy committee)
  • its establishment of an advisory committee of experienced information professionals to provide technical advice in support of the association and its mandate.

Mentioned in the article is the inaugural work that NALIP will undertake including:

  • hosting a general meeting on Dec. 3 at the Central Library with all information professionals during which the association’s constitution will be presented by the executive. 
  • formalizing membership with members from libraries, archive services, museums, and government, corporate and other information units.


Excerpt:

The National Association of Libraries and Information Professionals aims to revise legislation, form affiliations and provide training and development for its members.
A new library association was formed recently with the aim of improving library processes on the island.
The National Association of Libraries and Information Professionals (NALIP), Saint Lucia, was formed on March 12 with the election of an executive body of information professionals. 
The strategic goals of the organization, over a two-year period, include a revision of the current library legislation, the provision of professional development and training for members, and the development of partnerships/affiliations with national, regional and international associations to help boost the local association.

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.