In Jamaica, Librarians Taking Leadership Role in ICT Development

Above: Information Minister Sen. Sandrea Falconer (left) and Stephney Ferguson, one of the Librarians honoured at the Library and Information Association of Jamaica (LIAJA) President’s Banquet

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Librarians will play a leadership role in developing the Jamaican government’s framework for the ICT sector, according to Information Minister Sen. Sandrea Falconer.

The Minister said librarians could play a critical role in the development process, both by encouraging learning and access to information and providing leadership in the information field.

“The government commits to the use of digital technologies and networks as effective tools to allow for public access to information,” she said. “We will enable a legal environment that facilitates the development of a vibrant information and knowledge-based society.”

Claudette Thomas, president of the Library and Information Association of Jamaica, said her organization would align its programmes with the national agenda.

“Our association is cognizant that only through collaboration with key stakeholders [can] we make significant contribution to the development of Jamaica,” she said.