JLS salutes all library and information professionals

The Jamaica Library Service (JLS) is delighted to participate in the observance of Library and Information Week 2021 under the theme ‘ GLAM/R: Adapting to Changes and Expanding Access’.

The Library and Information Association of Jamaica has coined an intriguing theme incorporating the acronym GLAM/R. On one hand, it is evocative of the word glamour, while on the other hand, it is reflective of our rigorous reality and the dynamic responses of information units in the midst of unrelenting waves of the OVID-19 pandemic.

As one of the most expansive national information units, dispersed across the island, the JLS remains undaunted in its commitment and efforts to provide a diverse range of programmes and services to communities served through its network of public and school libraries. Although schools have been closed for face-to-face classes, the JLS, as an agency of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, continues to provide support for online teaching and learning by expanding the options for access to resources, free of cost. The public libraries islandwide remain open as safe spaces, conducive for attending online classes. We offer free access to internet-connected devices, free technology/computer training coordinated for children from the infant to the primary level and resources to meet the educational, informational and recreational needs of teachers, students and parents. Workshops are also hosted for teacherlibrarians to empower them with the knowledge to function in the online learning environment.

During this week of observance, the JLS salutes all library and information professionals within the organisation and in the industry islandwide, and applauds the care, confidence, competence and responsiveness given at this time to ensure that authentic information is disseminated. Our success is when citizens are empowered consumers and producers of accurate, reliable and credible information and knowledge, which they go on to use responsibly.

MAUREEN THOMPSON

Director General

Jamaica Library Service