It was Maya Angelo who said, “If you are going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased.” These words resonate deeply when we reflect on the remarkable journey of Professor Emerita Daphne Rowena Douglas, CD, whose life embodied the essence of leaving an enduring imprint on humanity.

Professor Douglas was a true pioneer and trailblazer in the realm of academia, leaving her mark on the annals of Jamaican librarianship. Her contributions transcend mere accomplishments; they embody a legacy of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment.

In her own account documented in the National Library of Jamaica’s 30^th Anniversary publication of 2009, Professor Douglas recalled that the concept of the National Library was conceived within the context of establishing a National Information System. Despite initially joining NACOLADS as an ordinary member, she later ascended to the position of Vice-Chairman, leveraging this role to spearhead a revolution in advocacy for the NLJ.

Her dedication to writing legacy extended to her being integral to the pioneering work of the National Library’s development. She joined the Board of Management in 1980, just a year after the library’s establishment, and remained dedicated to her role until 2011. Mr. John Aarons, then Executive Director, recounts that throughout the mid-1990s, her leadership shone brightly as she often assumed the chair in the absence of its incumbent. Thus, when Dr. Joyce Robinson stepped down, Professor Douglas emerged as the natural successor.

Under her stewardship, from 1997 to 2009, Professor Douglas served as the Chairman of the Board of Management at the NLJ, marking her tenure as the longest in its history. This enduring commitment stands as a testament to her capacity to guide and inspire, steering the NLJ with unwavering expertise.

Professor Douglas’ impact on the NLJ went beyond mere longevity. She was strongly committed to ensuring that the NLJ had its own legislation, aligning with international standards for managing and governing national libraries. Her leadership led to the enactment of two pivotal library legislations, demonstrating significant progress. The passage of the Legal Deposit Act of 2002, along with its accompanying regulations in 2004, marked a watershed moment in the institution’s history. The NLJ Act of 2010, which not only solidified the NLJ’s foundation but also surpassed its founding legislation, the IOJ Act of 1978, was a crowning achievement.

John Aarons highlighted Professor Douglas’ persistence in convincing the Council of the Institute of Jamaica in 2000 that the library was ready for autonomy from the Institute. At that time, the library was part of the IOJ. Aarons went on to state, “This is in no small measure due to the effectiveness of the Board of Management chaired by her in managing the library.”As a result, the Council recommended to the government, which agreed, that the library should be an autonomous entity, paving the way for the National Library Act.

Mrs. Winsome Hudson, former National Librarian of the NLJ, also expressed:

“It will be forever to Chairman’s Douglas credit that the law to make new provisions for the establishments and operation of the National Library of Jamaica and to provide for connected matters came into being on December 31, 2010.”

Further echoing the sentiments of Mrs. Winsome Hudson, it’s evident that Professor Douglas’s dedication extended to various aspects crucial for the development and sustainability of the National Library of Jamaica. She advocated for the National Library to establish a post of ‘Conservator’, and upon achieving this, Douglas firmly committed to the NLJ offering scholarships to staff members for expert conservation training. After her retirement, the NLJ honoured her service by naming its main reading room “The Daphne Douglas Reading Room.”

During her tenure, Professor Douglas administered countless programmes at the NLJ, solidifying her commitment to innovation and leaving a legacy. These initiatives included the creation, redesign, and formal launch of the NLJ website in 1999 as part of the institution’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. Notably, the NLJ was among the first government entities to establish a presence on the internet, reflecting its forward-thinking approach.

Also, in February 1998, the NLJ collaborated with the Gleaner Company and Info Channel Limited to introduce the Community Internet Access Service. This pioneering endeavour provided free internet access to members of the public in the main reading room, aligning with the NLJ’s mission to promote knowledge dissemination and digital inclusion.

Moreover, Professor Douglas spearheaded the adoption and implementation of a comprehensive computerization plan. This plan not only catered to the NLJ’s specific requirements but also addressed its responsibilities in automating libraries within sectoral networks and developing a national information system. Through these initiatives, Professor Douglas ensured that the NLJ remained at the forefront of technological advancement while fulfilling its mandate to serve the community effectively.

Further underscoring Professor Douglas’s unwavering, indelible legacy, her achievements stand as testament to her exceptional contributions to the field of librarianship:

• Silver Musgrave Medal for Contribution to Library Development, 2005
• Member of the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander, conferred by His Excellency, the Governor General of Jamaica, in recognition of services in the field of librarianship (1992)
• Junior Chamber of Commerce, Liguanea Chapter, special award for outstanding service to the community, 1993
• Award for Outstanding Service in the Field of Librarianship by the Association of Librarians in the Jamaica Library Service, 1991
• Special Tuition Grant awarded by the University of Western Ontario
• Woman of Distinction: National Award for distinguished service in librarianship and unbroken service in the field of library education (1976–1985)
• Institute of Jamaica Centenary Medal for Meritorious Service in the Field of Librarianship and Library, 1979

Professor Douglas’s profound legacy resonates as a beacon of inspiration and guidance, illuminating the path for future generations of librarians and scholars. Her tireless dedication to the advancement of library sciences has left an indelible mark on the National Library of Jamaica and beyond. It is with deep gratitude and reverence that we reflect on her remarkable journey, a journey marked by unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and boundless passion.

The impact of Professor Douglas’s transformative leadership extends far beyond the walls of academia; it has reformed the very essence of the National Library of Jamaica. Through her steadfast advocacy, she not only championed the establishment of crucial legislative frameworks but also instilled a culture of excellence and innovation that continues to shape the institution to this day.

As we honour Professor Douglas’s, let us also reaffirm our commitment to upholding her legacy of excellence and service. May her achievements serve as an enduring source of inspiration, empowering us to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and fostering a culture of inclusivity, accessibility, and enlightenment. In honouring her memory and bidding her farewell, we offer our deepest gratitude and respect. Rest in peace, Professor; your legacy will forever endure in the hearts and minds of all those whose lives you touched.