Vincentian librarian to participate in US-sponsored programme

A librarian at the National Public Library in St Vincent is travelling to the United States to participate in the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program.

Jeon Adams-Julien is taking part in a two-week project on American libraries from 15 July until 28 July.

The project will explore the many roles and functions of libraries and information specialists in American society.

Participants will examine the wide variety of US public, private, and academic libraries, the enrichment programs they devise for their diverse patrons, and their use of information technology.

“During the programme, participants will examine the importance of community-based partnerships and strategies for promoting sustainability and community service in American libraries,” the US embassy in Barbados said.

The diversity of library services in the digital age, the impact of new advancements in digital and online technologies on various types of libraries, and the role of libraries in eliminating the digital divide will all be explored, they added.

The programme begins today (17 July) in Washington, DC, and includes travel to New Orleans, Louisiana and Phoenix, Arizona before finishing in Chicago, Illinois.

The International Visitor Leadership Program is described as the Department of State’s premier, professional exchange program.

The programme brings together emerging leaders in their respective professions to learn how US experts in similar roles operate and to share best practices with the other programme candidates who hail from the same region and across the globe.