The role of the public library to the society is paramount. Besides providing the basic educational foundation for further studies, it acts as moulder of public opinion. This is derived from the premise that what an individual reads determines his perception of things. The public library there is an institution that requires all the attention of the Government for its proper functioning. UNESCO recognises the importance of a public library in Nation building. In its 1972 revised public library manifesto it states inter alia" that the public library offer to adults and children the opportunity to keep with the times,to educate themselves continuously and keep abreast of progress in the science and arts. Its content should be a living demonstration of the evolution of knowledge and culture, constantly reviewed, kept up to date and attractively presented. In this way,it help people form their own opinions and developed their creative and critical capabilities and powers of appreciation."
The public library is concerned with the communication of information and ideas ,whatever form it may be expressed.
Our colonial masters clearly understood the role of public library. During their time, libraries were built and equipped with colonial books. No wonder, in those days, and educated Nigeria know British history but remain ignorant of Nigerian history.
Several years after independence, it appears we are still not aware of the critical role a well built and stocked public library can play in Nation building. In Benue state for example ,the public library seemed to be phased out .Only the library at the headquarters seem to be operating. Other ones in Gungul ,Konshisha local Government has been converted into stores and the stocked books and shelves ,sold off. The library at Gboko too seem not to be working.
The Benue state chapter of Association of Nigerian Authors is championing the cause for a revised reading culture amongst our youths. Where are the books to read? Or do one buy in the market, stay there and read.
Our youths now take to facebook and other platforms because they can be added easily. How workers can afford to buy a newspaper and read now, talkless of a novel that is costly? I could recall how during holidays we could troop to the Gboko library to read. Go there and see dust ,broken windows and empty shelves.
The state government should renovate our public libraries, equip them with current book. This will make the citizens to be more enlightened and to effectively contribute to National development.
The public library is concerned with the communication of information and ideas ,whatever form it may be expressed.
Our colonial masters clearly understood the role of public library. During their time, libraries were built and equipped with colonial books. No wonder, in those days, and educated Nigeria know British history but remain ignorant of Nigerian history.
Several years after independence, it appears we are still not aware of the critical role a well built and stocked public library can play in Nation building. In Benue state for example ,the public library seemed to be phased out .Only the library at the headquarters seem to be operating. Other ones in Gungul ,Konshisha local Government has been converted into stores and the stocked books and shelves ,sold off. The library at Gboko too seem not to be working.
The Benue state chapter of Association of Nigerian Authors is championing the cause for a revised reading culture amongst our youths. Where are the books to read? Or do one buy in the market, stay there and read.
Our youths now take to facebook and other platforms because they can be added easily. How workers can afford to buy a newspaper and read now, talkless of a novel that is costly? I could recall how during holidays we could troop to the Gboko library to read. Go there and see dust ,broken windows and empty shelves.
The state government should renovate our public libraries, equip them with current book. This will make the citizens to be more enlightened and to effectively contribute to National development.
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