2 days Ago By Ana Madigibuli
The first National Library Week was observed in the United States of America in 1958 with the theme “Wake Up and Read”. Today many children around the world mark the special day. To be inspired by books and to make characters come to life is what the National Library Week is about.
It’s when children reveal their favourite characters from a book and talk about why they love them. For a week, schools around the country celebrated their own National Library and Literacy Week celebration and the Ministry of Education’s permanent secretary, Selina Kuruleca officially closed the event at the Uluda Holdings Grounds in Rakiraki. The theme for this year’s National Library Week celebration was “Ready, Set, Library” whereas the 2024 International Literacy Day theme was “Advancing multilingual education: Literacy for fostering mutual understanding and peace.
” During her closing address, Ms Kuruleca began with the Bible verse Proverbs 9:9 “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning”. “I must say that this week has been a celebration of literacy in all its forms as we have seen our young minds engaged in school-based activities to create awareness on the importance of the National Library and Literacy week,” she said. “The students were naturally delighted and encouraged to participate in various activities such as poster displays, oratory contests, impromptu speaking competitions, poetry reading or recitals, book character parade to inculcate the reading habit of children.
” While comparing the features of a smartphone to a library, Ms Kuruleca stated that in this technological and digital age some might be thinking that libraries are becoming archaic and that with a smartphone or tablet, one has all the information they need at their fingertips. She reminded everyone that a Library fosters networks between people, provide access to resources, and sustains the ideologies of fairness, inclusivity, and freedom of access to information. She extended her sincere appreciation to all the heads of school, librarians, teachers, students, parents and supporters for their contribution to the success of the 2024 Library and Literacy Week.
“Your tireless efforts have created lasting memories and have reminded us of the importance of lifelong learning and also your dedication and passion have made this celebration truly meaningful.” She encouraged those present to appreciate libraries, not just as buildings, but as beacons of knowledge, inclusion, and hope. She also wished everyone continuous achievement in the voyage of innovation, knowledge, and advancement.
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