Public Libraries as National Libraries – The Caribbean Experience

Peltier-Davis, Cheryl

doi:10.1177/095574909700900305

Cited by 4 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 4 publications

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“…Orthodox/traditional national libraries may not be ideal for developing countries, but plans conceived for alternative models must be well thought out with due recognition of each relevant context. One library performing both public and national library functions would result in greater efficiency and the economic use of limited resources (Peltier-Davis, 1997: 219).…”

Section: Conceptual Framework and Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…To illustrate, in a public library, a core objective is the widespread use of documents, as such wear and tear is acceptable. In a national library, such an outlook is in direct conflict with the need to preserve the published cultural heritage of the nation for present and future generations (Peltier-Davis, 1997: 218).…”

Section: Conceptual Framework and Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Peltier-Davis (1997) examined the national library functions and services of libraries in the English-speaking Caribbean to ascertain their roles as national libraries. She concluded that where national libraries did not exist, governments should have public libraries adopt this role and provide for some functions, bearing in mind that the then current staff may not have been adequate in numbers or qualifications to provide full national library functions and services.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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The effectiveness of the National Library and Information System Authority of Trinidad and Tobago in its role as a national library

Williams¹,

Renwick

2018

Alexandria: The Journal of National and International Library a

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The National Library and Information System Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (NALIS) aims to provide both the functions of a national library as well as a national library service. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of NALIS in its role as a national library. Utilising a qualitative approach, the study used mixed methods: semi-structured interviews with NALIS’ senior management; review of the International Organization for Standardization performance indicators; and comparative analysis of the strategic plans of the National Library of Jamaica and NALIS. Findings revealed that, despite NALIS performing the functions of a national library, key aspects of its services remain unfulfilled. Participants could not agree on the description of NALIS as outlined in the NALIS Act but 60% concluded that, in their personal opinion, NALIS could best be described as a public library which provides a national library service. Point score analysis determined that the most important function was ‘Central Collection of the Nation’s Literature’. The strategic planning of NALIS was found to be in alignment with the age of the organisation, as it is currently in an early phase of operation when policy formulation is critical. Given the turbulent economic environment and the many constraints that NALIS faced, it proved to be effective in the performance of national library functions and continues to strive for excellence in service delivery. It was noted that effective quality management was not adequately performed. Thus, in order to improve the level of service delivery, better quality management measures must be implemented.

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Section: Conceptual Framework and Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Conceptual Framework and Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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The effectiveness of the National Library and Information System Authority of Trinidad and Tobago in its role as a national library

Williams¹,

Renwick

2018

Alexandria: The Journal of National and International Library a

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Heritage Libraries and Institutions

Weir,

Harding-Hlady

2025

Encyclopedia of Libraries, Librarianship, and Information Science

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The National Library and Information System (NALIS) of Trinidad and Tobago: A Public Library System Performing National Library Functions

Peltier-Davis¹

2002

Alexandria: The Journal of National and International Library a

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In an environment where the continued survival of national libraries is being questioned, this article looks at an example of a public library system providing national library functions. The recent creation of the National Library and Information System (NALIS) in Trinidad and Tobago is evidence that Caribbean public libraries through a process of integration and centralization of existing library services can provide a nationwide national library service while maintaining essential national library functions. The organizational structure of NALIS is presented along with an outline of the functions of the various library divisions. A brief review of the literature on the current status of national libraries precedes the discussion on NALIS.

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Public Libraries as National Libraries – The Caribbean Experience

Cited by 4 publications

References 4 publications

The effectiveness of the National Library and Information System Authority of Trinidad and Tobago in its role as a national library

The effectiveness of the National Library and Information System Authority of Trinidad and Tobago in its role as a national library

Heritage Libraries and Institutions

The National Library and Information System (NALIS) of Trinidad and Tobago: A Public Library System Performing National Library Functions

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