The Jamaica Library Service (JLS) has established several advocacy committees across the island aimed at creating greater awareness of the value of public libraries.
The committees are comprised of key stakeholders in both private and public sector entities, who will serve as advocates for the libraries.
Establishment of the committees is among measures under the Global Libraries Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) Project.
The initiative is being undertaken through US$2 million in funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Libraries Initiative, and US$1.1 million from the Government of Jamaica.
Marketing and Communications Manager, Global Libraries ICT Project, Andrea C. Whyte, told JIS News that the aim is to create greater awareness of the value of public libraries in transforming communities through provision of state-of-the-art technology resources as well as innovative programmes and services.
She informed that the JLS will be highlighting a series of testimonials from persons, who have benefitted significantly from the utilisation of public libraries as well as from other key stakeholders, who are committed to supporting the advocacy initiatives.
Among them is Chairperson for the Kingston and St. Andrew Parish Library Advocacy Committee and library member, Marc Ramsay.
He said the advocacy committees are helping to “shed light on the continued relevance of public libraries as a cornerstone of nation-building for the foreseeable future.”
Chairperson for the St. Ann Parish Library Advocacy Committee, Ransford Davidson, implored all Jamaicans to “support the efforts and strategic interventions of the JLS, as together we seek to build our country and achieve the objectives of vision 2030.”
In addition to enhancing the programmes and services of the JLS, the Global Libraries ICT Project will provide training in ICT skills and other related areas for library staff and users.
Under the programme, 805 additional state-of-the-art computer systems will be installed in the public libraries across Jamaica and six mobile library units; new and enhanced network infrastructure will be implemented; and advanced high speed Internet service is to be provided to all locations.