Poor Reading Culture In Zambia

IN his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, late American educator, author, businessman, and keynote speaker Stephen R. Covey states, “There’s no better way to inform and expand your mind on a regular basis than to get into the habit of reading good literature.’’

The issue of poor reading culture among Zambians as one author recently observed springs up many times every year; and this has been so for a good number of years now. However, this is one issue that dies a natural death whenever it is brought to our attention. 

That reading, whether for pleasure or for academic purpose, is an essential habit that forms the bedrock of greatness in everyone, regardless of age, gender or status is hardly disputed.  

From my personal observation, the poor reading culture in Zambia is largely attributed to the lack of adequate awareness on its importance and inadequate public library facilities. It should also be noted that the few libraries we have across the country are in deplorable condition.

I can cite Ndola's Lubuto West Township public library which has been abandoned since the late 90s. This council library is just near Lubuto Secondary School and can complement the school library by providing services to the pupils many of whom are usually seen roaming the streets or patronizing bars.

Singing about poor reading culture through print media will yield little results. The government should embark on a program that will revamp education infrastructures like public libraries.

Public libraries are essential instruments for promoting reading culture as they serve as recreational centres and provide creative development to the children and local young adults by providing recreational reading books for their personality development and spiritual growth in their leisure time.

It has been said that the way of life of a nation is largely influenced by the percentage of its citizens who are literate.  Any research will reveal that no country with high illiteracy levels has ever developed. For any country to develop, it requires citizens who are able to critically analyze and understand critical issues affecting them.

Therefore, in our quest to improve the reading culture in the country, we should first start by investing massively in public libraries and equip them with learning materials.