Do people still go to libraries?
This is usually the first expression I hear (add in shocked expression) when I share that I am a professional librarian. Most adults in my friend circle haven’t been inside a library for years. The odd one or two will admit that they took their children when they were babies but now that we can just GOOGLE IT, there is no longer a need for public libraries! By Christelle Lubbe
This is when I get my secret smile. I am glad to say that the perception is wrong. Our libraries are vibrant, busy and relevant. Most of our libraries are filled with people at all hours and sometimes there is no place to sit. Patrons queuing to use the computers, people studying, browsing, reading newspapers, using Wi-Fi or attending programmes is part of the charm. Material no longer just includes books, we also have online resources, CDs, DVDs and audio books.
What I find interesting is that most of the queries we deal with is from students and learners who needed assistance to narrow down searches on Google to find the most relevant material for their assignments. I forgot to add, people still read real books that can turn a page and don’t need batteries and to be plugged in.
I do think that most of us, take the privilege of reading for granted. In our demanding reading sphere, there is usually just a fleeting thought for the non-readers, before we continue to keep our heads above water coping with life. We are bombarded with so many choices and information streaming from each crack in the wall and device that we can’t keep up. Most people will declare loudly that they have “no time to read” while they keep on scrolling to catch up on the latest crisis. We have become the followers of bite size drama, if it can’t get to the point in 5 seconds, our interest is lost.
In today’s world, the relevant question is not, if I can read, and have time to read, what should I read, but rather, do I understand what I read?
An adept reader, with more experience with the written word, is able to grasp layers of understanding, sometimes more from the spaces in between than from the words themselves. So many people get lost while trying to find the MEANING of the message by filling in the gaps themselves, without cross-checking, and that leads to misinformation. I believe it is because the (reading) foundation was not correctly formed.
The public library plays the role of addressing “the white spaces of the page” and we start honing the skill of reading with understanding by laying the right foundation from our first time users. Every service that is on offer is part of the package to create life-long readers. From the layout, signage and kinds of material on offer – to the kind of activity that we engage in.
For example, let’s highlight the humble Storytelling session. For those who attend frequently – starting from about 18 months (and older) – these sessions can add so many layers of learning. From the art of sitting still, active listening, social participation, word imagery, to the understanding (born out of curiosity) of the picture or page illustration. This list includes only a few layers of the deep insights gained. Of course, the hero of this session is always the BOOK! Not so in a fast paced storytelling on the Disney Channel. Reading to children is underestimated in its value to their abilities as an adult reader.
Other programmes focus on different aspects of people’s journeys and each library is different in its approach. We pride ourselves in adapting our services to people’s needs, only to find the general perception of our service is like us holding cracked balls in the air. We could have a greater impact if we have more people speaking up on our behalf and that will only happen if we are part of your lives. It is sad that people think we are just about books as it is unfortunately the only thing that you see when walking in. We hope that you do not judge this book by its cover. We are aware of our challenges of funding, and we no longer count our worth in gate reading statistics. Our role is clear, ensure citizens that can proudly take their place in society and contribute – which we achieve by winning over one person at a time.
I would like to suggest you explore the value of the library with your family, especially if you haven’t been to visit since the lock down. Be the voice to influence the changes you would like to see, and prepare your child for the fast pace world of the small screen by meeting us at the library door.
Christelle Lubbe
Head: Professional Services and Programmes
Library & Information Services
City of Cape Town