May 12, 2025 – In a vibrant celebration of literary talent, the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) honored 69 first-time authors at its 16th First Time Authors’ Appreciation Programme, held on May 9, 2025, at the Government Plaza Auditorium. Works published in 2024 spanned 24 fiction titles, 37 non-fiction books, and eight collections of poetry — all of which will now be housed in the Heritage Library’s Collection. Executive Director Paula Greene applauded the authors, stating that, “Becoming a published author takes vision, tenacity, and discipline,” she likening the experience to the birthing of a child — personal, transformative, and enduring. Delivering the feature address was Joan Osborne, retired NALIS Executive Director and founder of the programme. A stalwart of Caribbean literature, she called for continued encouragement of emerging local voices. Since its inception, the initiative has celebrated nearly 700 debut authors, many of whom have gone on to publish multiple works.
