WELCOME TO OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
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Yes, however appointments must be made with the Library Services Unit Supervisor to access the artifacts because they are brittle and fragile documents.
Contact us : library.unit@planning.gov.tt
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No, unfortunately the artifacts can only be viewed not loaned. However, you are most welcomed to take digital photography of the artifacts.
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Because the original documents are aged, fragile, and brittle in some cases, digitisation involved ‘old-school’ scanning of each page of each document using a flatbed scanner. The scanned objects were then imported to PaperPort for conversion to pdf and correction of scanning blemishes and errors. The digital archive allows for easier access to the documents within the collection and the ability to refine one’s search and/or search for specific words, phrases, terms and subjects. Compared to use of the physical document where one may need to read through an entire document to locate the specific information being sought, digital access provides ease of use since, due to the nature of these documents, they do not include tables of content or indexes. Additionally, the digital archive can be accessed at any time, from any location, via one’s internet connected device.
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In addition to making Dr. Williams’ speeches accessible to a global audience, the digitised collection now allows for the following: Ability for researchers to conduct more in-depth analyses through use of keyword searches, text analysis tools and perhaps even data mining which would all have proved challenging and time-consuming with physical objects. Study of the material/speeches in context of the time in which they were delivered, which would help researchers gain a better and deeper understanding of the historical context within which the speeches were made. Comparative analyses of the speeches, identification of recurring themes, and possible shifts in Dr. Williams’ thinking and political ideology over time. Incorporation of Dr. Williams’ words into educational curricula, thus enabling students to engage with primary source materials and gain a better understanding of Trinidad and Tobago’s, as well as the Caribbean’s, history and politics.
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The original documents will be preserved in industry standard archival containers, stored in the proper environment, and continue to reside at the Library Services Unit. Limited, supervised access to these documents will be allowed.
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Anyone connected to the internet via a pc or smart device can access the speeches!