As part of the celebrations to mark Peru’s National Day, July 28, the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Library of Peru.

At the signing which took place at the National Library, NALIS’ Executive Director, Paula Greene described the occasion as significant and much anticipated as it signaled the sharing of expertise among staff of the respective organisations. The areas for cooperation will include, but not limited to, preservation of documentary heritage, collection development, digitisation, preventative measures and/or risk control and the sharing of materials (books, magazines, catalogues and publications) for mutual benefit.

Greene also said, “The signing of this MOU is in alignment with NALIS’ 2020 – 2023 Strategic Plan titled: Embracing Change in the Delivery of Library and Information Services. The timing therefore could not have been better as NALIS continues to seek opportunities towards organisational sustainability, cultural transformation and service delivery, consistent with best practice. We therefore look forward to the successful cooperation through the implementation of our MOU.”

Symon de Nobriga, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister – Communications and Line Minister for NALIS who was present at the signing said, “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding is a watershed moment for our countries and particularly our Library professionals. Whilst the history of cooperation between our two countries has always been along the lines of economic cooperation, this venture into library services and the arts, represents a clear understanding of the value of the arts of literature in bringing together the people and diverse cultures of our two countries. Indeed, through this commingling of cultures, one can easily understand the truism, that there is much more that unites us than what divides us.”

In delivering remarks, both Senator the Honourable Dr Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs and His Excellency David Malága, Ambassador of Peru to Trinidad and Tobago described the occasion as historic. Attendees to the event included government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, Peruvian Master Artist Christian Bendayán, who was flown in by the embassy to mount his art exhibition titled: Amazonian Counter-Files at the National Library (July 28 to August 20), library professionals, and other specially invited guests.

Paula Greene, Executive Director of NALIS signs the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NALIS and the National Library of Peru. Signing as a witness to the cooperation is His Excellency David Malaga, Ambassador of Peru to Trinidad and Tobago. Looking on are Symon de Nobriga, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister – Communications and Dr. Amery Browne, Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs.

After the signing of the MoU, Ambassador of Peru, David Malága, thanks Paula Greene, NALIS’ Executive Director for the cooperation between NALIS and the National Library of Peru.