Build libraries and a reading culture

Last Updated: March 16. 2009 8:30AM UAE / March 16. 2009 4:30AM GMT

Providing the public with access to books does not necessarily mean that they will make use of the opportunity. Still, there can be no question that the authorities are aware of the importance of books and of literacy. Yesterday’s announcement of plans to expand the National Library is just the latest in a string of similar efforts to boost literacy. Other initiatives ranging from the distribution of 50 books to more than 22,000 families in Sharjah through the Knowledge Without Borders campaign, to the Kalima and Kitab projects to make international literature accessible to Arabic speakers, are also welcome.

How, though, to turn individuals into readers who will make use of these initiatives? Opening more than 15 libraries in one city, and placing some of them in shopping malls in an effort to reach the population, particularly young people, is a thoughtful approach. But this will not mean that a culture of reading will not take root overnight.

As with the cultivation of most good habits, getting children to read must begin early and in the home. Parents must emphasise the importance and the enjoyment of reading – although an element of compulsion is also crucial. Schools can incorporate reading into the curriculum and should expect students to read individually as part of their homework.

Unless parents start reading to and with their children, preferably in Arabic but certainly in English as well, a reading culture will not take root, regardless of how many libraries are made available to the public. Parents should be forcing their children to pick up a book and turn its pages, just as they force children to complete their domestic tasks, turn off the TV or head to bed at a reasonable hour.

Building these libraries is a commendable step, and will provide welcome choice in an environment where too many bookshops stock too few titles and often only those that are the most commercially successful. But the most enjoyable or instructive books will not always be bestsellers. Creating a space devoted to reading, education and love of learning is an important first step. The next step must be to find a way to make sure those libraries have patrons.

The National Abu Dhabi