Reading as a Panacea to Societal Problems.

Abstract

The paper discussed the conceptual clarifications, of reading, the society, the library and the essential roles that libraries play in the inculcation of reading, given that the library has the mandate and capacity to provide, and give access to broad range of information sources, aimed to foster literacy and education. The paper further asserts that the trend of escalating and persistent societal problems witnessed in Nigeria in the recent decade, has its root in ignorance, restiveness, misinformation, and poor literacy level of members of the society, and youth in particular. Such constant breakdown of law and order has impacted negatively on the political stability, security, and economic development of the nation. The paper argues that the provision and dissemination of timely, accurate information through the services of libraries, will produce a reading, informed, disciplined, responsible and responsive, re-oriented, and enlightened citizenry, who will be able to take positive decisions which will engender stability and development in the polity. The paper proposes the adoption of the services of libraries to ensure access to, and utilization of information and knowledge with a view to empower members of the society to combat man-made societal problems, and promote national development. The position of this paper is that reading, and by extension libraries, serve as agents for life-long learning, which in turn, produces youths and adults who will champion societal development and equity.