#AccessToInformation

[perspectiveunbound]

Empowering Individuals: The Critical Link Between Technology and Economic Freedom

The Intersection of Technology and Economic Freedom Hello, dear readers! Today on "Perspectives Unbound," we explore the dynamic relationship between technology and economic freedom, particularly in shaping the future of economies both in Scotland and across the globe. As technological advancements continue to accelerate, understanding their implications for economic freedom and individual empowerment is crucial. At its core, technology has the potential to democratise access to information, resources, and opportunities. Digital platforms now enable entrepreneurs to reach global markets, allowing for innovation to thrive in ways previously unimaginable. Small businesses can compete alongside larger corporations, and individuals can harness the power of technology to create and share ideas that drive economic growth. In Scotland, we witness inspiring examples of how technology fuels economic freedom. The rise of fintech solutions, for instance, has transformed the financial landscape, providing individuals and businesses access to tools that enhance financial literacy and independence. Moreover, the growth of the tech start-up ecosystem in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow reflects the innovative spirit and adaptability of communities eager to embrace change. However, while technology provides opportunities, it also presents challenges that must be addressed to preserve economic freedom. The digital divide remains a significant barrier for many, leading to inequalities in access to technology and training. Policymakers and business leaders must focus on creating inclusive frameworks that ensure everyone has the resources to participate in this growing digital economy. Furthermore, as technology evolves, so do concerns about privacy, security, and monopolistic practices. Vigilance is required to protect the rights of individuals in an increasingly digital world. The balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding personal freedoms should be a priority for all stakeholders involved. Embracing technology also means being proactive in educating future generations. Preparing young people for a digital economy through STEM-based education and training initiatives will empower them to become contributors to economic freedom, driving innovation and creative solutions to complex problems. In conclusion, the intersection of technology and economic freedom offers immense potential for growth and empowerment. By harnessing technological advancements while addressing the challenges they pose, we can create a more equitable and prosperous society. As we continue to explore this vital narrative, let us champion policies that promote access, education, and innovation for all. Thank you for joining today’s discussion on the powerful role of technology in fostering economic freedom. Together, we can advocate for a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Warm regards, Alastair Majury *Perspectives Unbound* --- *Stay tuned for more insights on how technology, freedom, and economic growth intersect to shape our narratives in Scotland and beyond.*

[thesoulscript]

Why Libraries Now Need a Curriculum in Schools: Turning Shelves into Systems of Learning

📚

The Changing Face of the School Library

There was a time when a school library was simply a quiet space with rows of books, a helpful librarian, and the occasional class visit. It was where students came to complete homework, research a project, or maybe read a story during free time. But today, education is evolving. Information is no longer scarce—it's abundant, confusing, and often unreliable. In this new world, school libraries are no longer just storehouses of books. They are emerging as learning laboratories—and to fulfill this role effectively, they need a curriculum.

A library curriculum is not about transforming the library into another classroom. It's about structuring learning experiences that equip students with skills that span beyond textbooks—skills like information literacy, digital responsibility, inquiry-based thinking, and a love for reading. These are essential in the 21st-century world, and they don’t fit neatly into any one subject. That’s why the library must become their home.

From Borrowing Books to Building Knowledge

When we think of a curriculum, we often imagine math formulas or grammar rules. But a library curriculum is different. It is flexible, interdisciplinary, and often student-led. It starts with a simple idea: that every student should learn how to access, evaluate, and use information wisely. That means learning to question, to analyze, to cite sources, and to build understanding from a wide range of materials.

With a structured library curriculum, librarians can introduce lessons at each grade level—on how to do real research, how to create bibliographies, how to identify fake news, how to navigate databases, and how to stay safe online. These are no longer optional skills; they are survival tools in a digital-first world.

A Compass for Critical Thinking

Imagine a student who can browse five different articles on a topic, evaluate their credibility, identify bias, and form an informed opinion. That’s the kind of learner schools need to cultivate. But it doesn't happen by accident—it takes guided practice. A curriculum offers the librarian a pathway to build those skills gradually and meaningfully.

Moreover, as AI tools become more accessible, students must learn to distinguish between generated content and original sources. They need to learn not just to find answers, but to ask better questions. The library becomes the perfect space for this training, and the curriculum becomes the compass.

Reading for Pleasure—and Purpose

Reading is at the heart of the library. But left to chance, it’s easy for reading to be overshadowed by exams and screen time. A curriculum helps embed reading for pleasure into the school culture. It allows librarians to design reading programs, author studies, reading challenges, genre explorations, and student book talks throughout the year—aligned with developmental needs.

When reading is celebrated regularly and systematically, it becomes more than a habit. It becomes part of a student’s identity. A library curriculum ensures that reading doesn’t fade into the background—it becomes a lively conversation between students, books, and ideas.

Collaboration with Classrooms

One of the biggest benefits of having a structured library curriculum is that it opens doors for collaboration with teachers. A history teacher working on a research project can align with the librarian’s curriculum on referencing and citation. A science teacher discussing data can invite the librarian to speak about digital sources and ethical research.

This connection ensures that the library is not isolated from the academic pulse of the school. Instead, it becomes an interdisciplinary partner—bringing information skills into every subject area in a seamless, supportive way.

Giving Students Agency

One of the most exciting outcomes of a library curriculum is how it helps students feel ownership of their learning. When students help plan book displays, contribute to library newsletters, or run peer reading clubs, they aren’t just learning—they’re leading. They begin to see the library as their space, not just the school’s.

The curriculum can include student-led activities, digital portfolios, reading journals, and collaborative research. This agency deepens their connection to knowledge and makes them more engaged learners.

Professional Recognition for Librarians

Librarians often work quietly behind the scenes, yet they play a powerful role in shaping students' intellectual lives. A curriculum gives librarians the visibility and voice they deserve. With structured goals and outcomes, librarians can now document their impact, track student progress, and present data to school leadership.

It transforms their role from resource managers to instructional leaders. They are no longer optional support staff—they are essential educators, building skills that cut across all disciplines and all stages of schooling.

Supporting Equity and Access

In many schools, especially those in under-resourced areas, the library may be the only place where students can explore topics freely, access the internet, or discover books that reflect their culture and language. A library curriculum can ensure that every child—regardless of background—gets exposure to inclusive stories, relevant research tools, and digital access.

By setting intentional reading lists, targeted support sessions, and culturally responsive practices, librarians can close gaps in literacy, confidence, and comprehension. The curriculum becomes a tool not just for teaching, but for equity.

Embracing the Future with Confidence

Education is changing rapidly. From AI-generated essays to virtual reality classrooms, the future of learning is already knocking at our door. Libraries, once seen as relics of the past, are uniquely positioned to lead this transition. But to do that, they need direction—a roadmap for how to engage students meaningfully in a new world of knowledge.

A library curriculum provides that roadmap. It prepares students not just for tests, but for life—for jobs that haven’t been invented, for challenges we can't yet predict, and for a world that will demand clarity, creativity, and collaboration.

The Final Word: Not a Restriction, But a Revolution

Some fear that introducing a curriculum will restrict the free-flowing nature of the library. But a good curriculum isn’t about rules—it’s about rhythm. It offers structure without stiffness, goals without rigidity. It allows librarians to build learning experiences that are intentional, impactful, and inspiring.

Libraries with a curriculum are not losing their soul. They are finding their full strength.

[usnewsper-politics]

House Considers Contempt for Hunter Biden in Ukraine Probe: Trump, Corruption, and Family Drama #abuseofpower #accesstoinformation #businessdealingsinUkraine #conflictofinterest #constitutionalduty #contemptofcongress #contemptproceedings #corruptionallegations #documentsandtestimony #Housevote #hunterBiden #impeachmentinquiry #potentialwrongdoing #presidentsfamily #privilegeconcerns #Rep.JimJordan #subpoena #subpoenas #supremecourt #Trumpadministration #Ukraineinvestigation #Ukrainianaffairs #whitehouse #Witnesses

[arjundastenders]

Discover the future of education in India with Smart Classrooms! Explore how technology is revolutionizing learning, providing personalized education, and empowering students. Learn about the key initiatives and tenders shaping the education landscape. Join the educational evolution with Tendersniper.

[thxnews]

Oxford Champions Access to Information and Digital Connectivity

  Fostering an Open International Community

The Global Conference, held to commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information and jointly organized by UNESCO and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, unfolded its significance at the prestigious Bonavero Institute of Human Rights, University of Oxford, on September 28, 2023. In this gathering of global leaders, scholars, and advocates, there resounded a resolute, shared commitment to advancing access to information and fortifying digital connectivity.   The Pillars of Our Collective Resolve Underpinning the discussions, several critical principles were underscored: - A Digital Path to Prosperity - The conference participants firmly emphasized digital connectivity and the unrestricted flow of information as essential components for nurturing an open international community. This digital lifeline bolsters stability, security, the rule of law, prosperity, and sustainable development. - Online Human Rights - Participants emphatically asserted the applicability of human rights in the digital realm, mirroring their offline counterparts. They acknowledged that access to information, particularly through the Internet, serves as a catalyst for a broad spectrum of human rights, with a dedicated commitment to ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities. - Preserving the Internet's Integrity - The conference unequivocally acknowledged the importance of preserving an open, free, global, interoperable, reliable, safe, secure, and sustainable Internet. It championed a multi-stakeholder approach to address the escalating global challenge of Internet shutdowns and restrictions. - Empowering Elections - The conference underscored the pivotal role of the Internet's free flow of information in upholding democracy's integrity through free and fair elections. Participants viewed technology, including the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, as an empowering tool in the electoral process. - Democracy's Bedrock - The conference deemed access to information as vital for supporting democratic processes, strengthening institutional commitments to individuals and communities, and reinforcing inclusion and accountability. - Gender Equity in Public Life - The conference highlighted the online space's role in promoting gender equity in public life. Participants criticized divisive narratives and gendered disinformation as threats to women's political participation and democratic institutions. - Independent Media's Pivotal Role - The conference wholeheartedly acknowledged the indispensable role that independent media plays in facilitating access to information, particularly through the Internet. Moreover, it's concerning that shutdowns frequently accompany attempts to suppress press freedom, stifle debates, and propagate misinformation. Notably, participants expressed strong support for UNESCO's ongoing efforts to align judicial decisions with International Human Rights Law. - Global Collaborations for a Connected World - The conference warmly embraced and welcomed the collaborative efforts of the international community, spearheaded by renowned organizations such as UNESCO, the Freedom Online Coalition, the Taskforce on Preventing Internet Shutdowns, the Media Freedom Coalition, the Open Government Partnership, and the International Conference of Information Commissioners. These commendable initiatives play an absolutely critical role in safeguarding the free flow of information, ensuring digital connectivity, and effectively countering the pervasive threats posed by internet shutdowns and disinformation.  

Voices of Leaders

In his statement, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon emphatically emphasized the United Kingdom's dedication to empowering citizens with transparent and trustworthy information. Furthermore, he underscored the pivotal role of the internet and independent media in nurturing thriving democracies. He also expressed the UK's unwavering commitment to combatting politically motivated internet shutdowns and disinformation, recognizing the significant threats these pose to democracy  

UNESCO's Perspective

UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information, Jelassi, highlighted the critical nature of internet accessibility in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. Jelassi noted that limited internet accessibility, characterized by slow or unreliable connections, can perpetuate inequalities, especially in marginalized communities and remote areas lacking robust internet infrastructure. The Oxford Conference has sent a resounding message, thereby reinforcing the importance of a connected world, where the free flow of information is upheld as a cornerstone of democracy and human rights. In an era marked by digital transformation, these commitments made here undeniably pave the way for a more inclusive, transparent, and equitable global society.   Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon. Read the full article

[helpmakebetterdecisions]

9.C Empowering Communities: The Impact of Universal ICT Access

[zsoltzsemba]

The Fly on the Wall!

Privacy, Censorship, and Access to Information in the Digital Age. https://wp.me/p84YjG-3L2 #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineCensorship #FreeSpeech #BillC18 #NewsAccess #SocialMediaLaw #zsoltzsemba #InformationRights #CanadianMedia #ContentCompensation #idiots

Canada, Censorship, and Access to Information. #DigitalPrivac #OnlineCensorship #FreeSpeech #BillC18 #NewsAccess #SocialMediaLaw #InformationRights #CanadianMedia #ContentCompensation #MediaLegislation #PrivacyMatter #CensorshipDebate #AccessToInformation #BillC18Analysis #ProtectFreeSpeech #SocialMediaFreedom #CanadianNewsAct #GlobalInformationAccess

[justicenews247]

Why won't #Canada repair access to government information?: Mounting delays are eroding our trust in democracy. @CBA_News

Why won’t Canada repair access to government information?: Mounting delays are eroding our trust in democracy. It will take political will to overhaul our ATI system. Read it now: https://bit.ly/46GqXxY #AccessToInformation #ATI Source: X

[newsbites]

News from Newfoundland and Labrador, 14 July

1. Police continue to investigate stabbing in St Johns in Topsail Road.

A 34-year-old man was seriously injured in a stabbing in the west end of St. John’s.

The assault took place between Bay Bulls Road and Topsail Road.

Police are urging anyone with information or video footage of the area during the specified time to come forward.

2. A man from Bell Island is facing charges after being caught on 12 July with drugs in a car which was pulled over for speeding.  He was driving while his licence was suspended and showing signs of driving impaired.

3. Near miss at Braya refinery.  A Stop-work order has not been issued by the department. 

Occupational Health and Safety is investigating a "near-miss" incident at the Braya refinery in Come By Chance, involving drilling on a repurposed line that had previously been in nitrogen service.

The line was not in service or under pressure at the time of the incident, and internal analysis was conducted before sharing the findings with OHS and employees.

This incident comes almost a year after a fatal explosion at the refinery, which resulted in a criminal negligence investigation by the RCMP.

4.  Clean-up underway after an unexpected tornado in Half Moon Bay.

5. Electrically-serviced campsites in loops A and B of Newman Sound Campground in Terra Nova Park are currently without power.

6. Oceana Canada is concerned about DFO’s failure to close Capelin Fishery [via VOCM].

OC says that the Canadian government, specifically the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), is not effectively incorporating climate change data and research into fisheries management decisions, which is exacerbating the depletion of fish stocks.

7. Candidate Tony Wakeham is releasing his healthcare plan for connecting residents with a primary provider for healthcare.

Tony Wakeham's health care plan focuses on improving access to timely care in Newfoundland and Labrador by connecting every resident with a primary health care provider and establishing family health care teams.

The plan prioritizes job offers to health care professionals at the beginning of their training to address the shortage of healthcare providers in the province.

Wakeham emphasizes the urgency of addressing the lack of access to health care and believes that waiting for the long-term vision of the Health Accord is not feasible for the province.

8. Musgrave Harbour failed to respond to two access to information requests, the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner has found [per VOCM].

9. It is peak tourism for Newfoundland and Labrador right now. Business has picked up but the sector still faces challenges, including air access [per VOCM].

Small businesses in the hospitality industry, such as restaurants and tour companies, are relying on a busy summer season to help cover costs and repay loans taken out during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Staffing shortages, inflation, and rising food prices are adding to the challenges faced by businesses in the summer, but increased tourism can help offset these difficulties.

Business owners are implementing strategies such as menu changes, hiring immigrants, and raising prices to adapt to the current economic conditions and make the most of the summer season.

[jbconsulting-blog1]

Digital Marketing workshop #freelessons #accesstoinformation #marketaccess #businesspartners #businessideas #marketing #workshop #tech (at 315 Midriver Estates, Terenure, Kempton Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/B3U0-QwFWtG/?igshid=1ec65703r3xqa

[perspectiveunbound]

Harnessing Technology for Economic Freedom in Scotland's Future

The Intersection of Technology and Economic Freedom Hello, dear readers! Today on "Perspectives Unbound," we explore the dynamic relationship between technology and economic freedom, and how this interplay is shaping Scotland's future in a rapidly evolving global landscape. As we advance into an increasingly digital age, the potential for innovation and growth is immense, but it is essential to ensure that this potential is harnessed in a way that promotes freedom and prosperity for all. Technology has revolutionised the way we live, work, and communicate. In Scotland, we can harness advancements in technology to spur economic growth, enhance productivity, and create new job opportunities. The digital economy not only offers avenues for traditional industries to modernise but also paves the way for entirely new sectors to emerge. One key advantage of technological advancement is the ability to lower barriers to entry for entrepreneurs. With the rise of digital platforms and tools, starting a business has become more accessible than ever. Scottish entrepreneurs can now reach global markets with relative ease, connecting with consumers far beyond their local communities. This increased connectivity fosters competition and stimulates innovation, which is essential for a thriving economy. Moreover, technology empowers individuals with greater access to information and resources. The principles of economic freedom are grounded in the ability of individuals to make informed choices. As more people gain access to knowledge and tools through online platforms, they can pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and contribute to the economy in meaningful ways. However, as we embrace the benefits of technology, we must remain vigilant about the challenges it presents. Issues such as data privacy, digital monopolies, and the digital divide must be addressed to ensure equitable access to opportunities. Policymakers play a crucial role in creating a regulatory environment that fosters innovation while safeguarding individual rights and promoting fair competition. Furthermore, as technology continues to evolve, so too must our education systems. Preparing the next generation of workers for an increasingly digital economy requires a focus on developing skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. By integrating technology into educational curricula, we can equip young people with the abilities they need to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing world. In conclusion, the intersection of technology and economic freedom holds immense potential for shaping Scotland's future. By embracing innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and prioritising equitable opportunities, we can build a resilient economy that benefits everyone. Thank you for joining today’s exploration of the influence of technology on economic freedom. Together, let us advocate for a future where innovation and individual liberty go hand in hand. Warm regards, Alastair Majury *Perspectives Unbound* --- *Stay tuned for more insights on how technology, freedom, and economic growth intertwine to shape our narratives in Scotland and beyond.*

[jpapimphot]

In the United Kingdom, Black History Month was first celebrated in October 1987.[18] It was organised through the leadership of Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who had served as a coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council (GLC) and created a collaboration to get it underway.[19] It was first celebrated in London.[20]

Did you know? ⁉️🤔📖 27 Jan

Founded by @nypl in 2014, today we celebrate #LibraryShelfieDay. Book lovers everywhere unite by using the hashtag and sharing selfies in front of personal or #library shelves on social media

*Go on .. tag us in yours! We do love a good #LibraryShelfie*

เมื่อวาน (27 ม.ค.) เป็นวันรำลึกเหตุการณ์ฆ่าล้างเผ่าพันธุ์สากล เรารำลึกถึงเหยื่อและผู้รอดชีวิตจากการฆ่าล้างเผ่าพันธุ์ และยกย่องผู้ที่ต่อต้านการกระทำดังกล่าว

#HolocaustMemorialDay  #HMD2021 

28 Jan data privacy day

January 28 is celebrated as Data Privacy Day (DPD) across the world.

February marks LGBT+ History Month in the UK and

Feb is US blackhistory month

Electronic Records Day Promotional Materials

https://www.statearchivists.org/programs/state-electronic-records-initiative/electronic-records-day/electronic-records-day-promotional-materials/?fbclid=IwAR3ZdR4F6GeVoyCT0hw5ADlR3cgkk1WSSne32inEKXecRBtzXp7s2_FkfF4

วันที่ 6 นี้เป็นวันเปิดข้อมูลสากล หรือ Open Data Day

4 march world book day uk

April 25-May 1 is #PreservationWeek. Sponsored by ALA, Preservation Week raises preservation awareness in the library and archives community. Explore this handbook from the Digital Preservation Coalition for help with digital preservation: https://www.dpconline.org/handbook/organisational-activities/storage

#RIMMonth

วันโทรคมนาคมโลกและสังคมสารสนเทศโลก (World Telecommunication and Information Society Day)

เมื่อวันที่ 17 พ.ค.

June is #IndigenousHistoryMonth  & #pridemonth2022 !

Happy International Literacy Day!

28 September is #AccessToInfoDay #IDUAI2021!

Of course, #libraries know that access is important every day, but do decision-makers?

For our 65th #10MinuteInternationalLibrarian exercise, be able to explain why #AccessToInformation matters: bit.ly/3kLxwdT

#IFLAFromHome

#HispanicHeritageMonth

กันยายน อเมริกา

In honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, ตุลาคม

Join #ASAVic in celebrating World Day for Audiovisual Heritage 2021! We have created a video of audiovisual knowledge for both beginners and professionals to celebrate. We’ll be tweeting speakers and discussions before the big release #AudiovisualHeritageDay #AudiovisualHeritage

November? World Digital Preservation Day

[accesoainformacion]

Opción extrema: derrocar a Allende.

Esta fue la orden de #RichardNixon: Opción extrema: derrocar a Allende. #accesoainformación #accesstoinformation #FOIA #Freepress #Press #Prensa #PrensaLibre #NSA

Nixon: Hacer que la economía grite; orden emitida hace 50 años Génesis de la infame directiva de cambio de régimen de Nixon en Chile registrada en documentación desclasificada

Washington, D.C., September 15, 2020 – On September 15, 1970, during a twenty-minute meeting in the Oval Office between 3:25 pm and 3:45 pm, President Richard Nixon ordered the CIA to foment a military coup in Chile.…

[gokeenstudentmaker-blog]

“It is one of the unexpected disasters of the modern age that our new unparalleled access to information has come at the price of our capacity to concentrate on anything much. The deep, immersive thinking which produced many of civilization's most important achievements has come under unprecedented assault. We are almost never far from a machine that guarantees us a mesmerizing and libidinous escape from reality. The feelings and thoughts which we have omitted to experience while looking at our screens are left to find their revenge in involuntary twitches and our ever-decreasing ability to fall asleep when we should.” ~ Alain de Botton Take control of your attention and direct your focus with the spinnercube! #unexpected #disasters #modernage #accesstoinformation #comesataprice #capacity #concentrate #immersive #thinking #assault #neverfar #machine #escape #feelings #thoughts #experience #screens #AlaindeBotton #quoteoftheday #takecontrol #attention #directyourfocus #staypresent #spinintofocus #fdigetcube2 #fidgetspinners #fidgetspinnercube #spincube #spinnercubes #spinnercube

[alwaysswitchedon]

Qatar: FIFA World Cup of Kafala

Qatar: FIFA World Cup of Kafala #FIFA #Soccer #Football #FIFAWorldCup #WorldCup #Qatar2022 #BoycottQatarWC #BoycottQatar2022 #OneLove LGBTIQrights #HumanRights #RightsNotGreed #Equality #Dignity #RightToLife #Freedom #SocialSecurity #Privacy #FreedomOfExpression #FreedomOfAssociation #Education #Health #FoodSecurity #CleanWater #CleanEnergy #Community #Family #RightToTravel #RightToReligion #FairWage #Leisure #Assembly #InnocentUntilProveGuilty #Protection #Asylum #Peace #Justice #StandardOfLiving #Housing #AccessToInformation #Governance 

Protest Qatar sexism, homophobia & racism. Stop jailing, forced conversion & 'honour' killing of LGBTs. Equality for women & migrant workers. Sat 19 Nov, 1-2pm, Qatar embassy, S. Audley St, London W1K 1NB Map https://t.co/mREibvzfyc#QatarAntiGay PLSE RT@gfsnUK @harveyvolley pic.twitter.com/kCfwRRt8a1 — Peter Tatchell (@PeterTatchell) November 15, 2022   The kafala system requires all migrant…

[surveycircle]

Tweeted

Participants needed for online survey! Topic: "Music lovers, why do you like to pre-order albums on vinyl?" https://t.co/VbCoKsR6WR via @SurveyCircle #vinyl #coursera #ConsumerFrustrations #AccessToInformation #ConsumerTrends #survey #surveycircle https://t.co/sX56zjx2Jz

— Daily Research @SurveyCircle (@daily_research) Jul 14, 2022