Saint Lucia will observe National Library Week from April 19 to 25, with Sir Arthur Lewis Community College’s (SALCC) Hunter J. François Library (HJFL) at the forefront of the observance. The academic hub continues to play a vital role in shaping informed, engaged, and empowered learners.
Leading up to and going into the week, HJFL has several events lined up. Two of those events, the semi-finals and finals of its iconic WORRRD Up Poetry Slam, took place earlier this month. The other events are as follows:
- Friday, April 17 | Author Talks – Featuring Mrs. Louise Mathurin-Serieux
Innovation Resource Centre, SALCC | 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Hosted by HJFL in collaboration with the Social Science and Knowledge Society Department, this session explores Saint Lucia’s agricultural history through the book On the Shoulders of Peasants, while promoting research and use of library resources.
- Monday, April 20 – Patron Appreciation Day
HJFL launches automation of the Anse La Raye Primary School Library collection, supporting improved access and community library development.
- Wednesday, April 22 | National Library Outreach Day
HJFL staff visit Ave Maria School to assess and support development of its library services.
- Wednesday, April 22 | Derek Walcott Library Inscription Ceremony
Commemorating the Derek Walcott inclusion on UNESCO’s Memory of the World (LAC) Register.
- Thursday, April 23 | Take Action for Libraries Day
Launch of the SALCC 40th Anniversary Thought Leadership Series—featuring research-driven articles by staff on national issues.
- Friday, April 24 | Community Library Outreach
Visits to primary schools in Vieux Fort to assess and support school library development.
For more than twenty years, National Library Week has highlighted the importance of libraries across the island. At SALCC, the Hunter J. François Library brings this mission to life daily by supporting students, faculty, and the wider community through access to knowledge, research support, and dynamic programming that fosters intellectual growth and cultural appreciation.