In the context of cultural cooperation, as outlined in the Memoranda of Cooperation (MoC) between the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) and the National Libraries of China, Peru and Cuba Jose Marti, NALIS presented book collections to ambassadors Fang Qiu, David Malága and Tania Diego Olite of the embassies of China, Peru and Cuba, respectively, on December 7 and 8.

The MoCs provide for the exchange of information materials, among other things. NALIS has already received book donations from said countries.  NALIS’ donation to each of countries consisted of approximately 25 books on and about Trinidad and Tobago. Some of the books presented have been authored by renowned local writers like Sir VS Naipaul, Michael Anthony (DLittt) and Earl Lovelace.

Donated book titles included: A House of Mr Biswas; Green Days by the River; Salt; Cote Ci Cote La; King of Soca; The Illustrated Story of Pan; Folklore Legends of Trinidad and Tobago; High Mas; Great Estates of Trinidad; Changing Society of Tobago Vols. 1 and 2; The Built Heritage of Trinidad and Tobago; Journey Trinidad and Tobago, Waterfalls of Paradise, Forged From the Love; Multicultural Cuisine of Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean (Naparima Cook Book); Rituals of Power and Rebellion: The Carnival Tradition in Trinidad and Tobago 1763 – 1982; Towns and Villages; The Biological Diversity of Trinidad and Tobago; Sylvia Hunt’s Cooking: Proud Legacy of Our People; Wetlands and Sea Coasts of Trinidad and Tobago; A Guide to Beaches and Bays of Trinidad and Tobago; Gardening in Trinidad and Tobago Our Style and last but not least, The Book of People.

Ambassador Fang was delighted to receive the books on behalf the National Library of the People’s Republic of China. He said, "Today's donation is meaningful. We have 1.4 billion people and many few have the opportunity to learn about Trinidad and Tobago. Even very well educated persons have no knowledge because there are no resources in China about Trinidad and Tobago." He noted that the collection will assist in providing persons with information about the twin island state. At the presentation, Ambassador Fang took the opportunity to speak with Delise Thomas and Jenna Sandiford Maundy, two of NALIS’ librarians who recently returned from training programmes in China, courtesy his embassy.

His Excellency, David Malága thanked NALIS for the donation and expressed his sincere appreciation for the joint projects which served to educate Trinidad and Tobago citizens about Peru.  Ambassador Malága, who is scheduled to leave Trinidad in December, assured that his successor will continue the cooperation between the two countries and national libraries.

Ambassador Tania Diego Olite was also pleased to receive the donation and noted the high quality and titles of the publications. She said that the books will serve as a bridge between the people of Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago.

CUBA: Second from left, Her Excellency Tania Diego Olite, Ambassador of Cuba receives a donation of books from Avolon Thomas, Director, Human Resources, NALIS. Participating in the presentation were Debbie Goodman, Manager Corporate Communications, NALIS and Julio Cabada, Commercial Counsellor for the Embassy of Cuba.

CHINA: His Excellency, Fang Qiu, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, receives the donation of books from Paula Greene, Executive Director, NALIS.

PERU: His Excellency David Malaga, Ambassador of Peru at the presentation of books to his national library. At his right is Paula Greene, Executive Director of NALIS. Also participating in the presentation were NALIS’ Michelle Garcia de Armesto, Director Heritage Library (Ag) and Avolon Thomas, Director, Human Resources Division.