The Hunter J. Francois Library (HJFL) at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College will host a vibrant range of activities in observance of National Library Week. This weeklong celebration, running from April 8th to April 13th, 2024, aligns with libraries and information units across the island, all rallying behind the global theme: “For a Richer, Fuller Life, Read!”
The theme underscores the profound impact of libraries and reading on enriching lives, urging individuals to embrace the habit of reading for its transformative potential in gaining knowledge, broadening perspectives, and immersing oneself in the richness of literature.
HJFL’s lineup of events includes the popular WORRRD Up Poetry Competition, a platform that empowers students to express their creativity and literary prowess. The semi-finals, held on March 27th, saw fourteen poets vying for recognition, culminating in the finals on April 3rd, where Shyne Savory emerged as the WORRD UP Champion 2024.
In addition to poetry, the week features engaging discussions with acclaimed authors McDonald Dixon and Chadia Mathurin slated for Friday April 12, and a meaningful community outreach project aimed at enhancing the Anse la Raye Primary School library. On April 10, the Hunter J. François Library will officially hand over the newly developed Anse La Raye Primary School Library to the principal, students, and teachers. The SALCC Debate Society members will dissect the moot “Libraries in Saint Lucia are antiquated relics, no longer essential in the digital age” tackling the relevance of libraries in the digital age on Wednesday, April 17.
Other key events organised by the National Committee include:
Monday, April 8th: Official Opening with a Thanksgiving Service, recognizing the contributions of library and information workers.
Tuesday, April 9th: National Library Workers Day, honoring the dedicated professionals connecting people with knowledge and resources.
Wednesday, April 10th: National Library Outreach Day, extending support and services into the community, including the official handover of the Anse La Raye Primary School Library.
Thursday, April 11th: Take Action for Libraries Day, mobilizing advocates to highlight the pivotal role of libraries in nation-building, featuring a panel discussion and a televised debate.
Friday, April 12th: “Chill-out with your Library” event at public libraries, fostering community connections, alongside Author Talks at HJFL.
Saturday, April 13th: “Story Hour: A Day with Volunteer Readers” across public libraries, celebrating the magic of storytelling and literacy.
