The Power of Reading: A Love That Never Dies

Reading as a hobby has become an endangered species, or so it seems. While some may claim that technology has led to the decline of reading, others argue that it's the education system's fault. However, I firmly believe that the love of reading is still very much alive. As educators, parents, and policymakers, we must recognize the importance of nurturing this habit among our young students and adults alike. The curiosity factor Humans are naturally curious creatures, and this curiosity drives us to explore the world around us. Reading is an excellent way to satisfy this thirst for knowledge and understanding. As long as we seek to learn and grow, the appeal of reading will endure. It's essential for educators to actively promote reading among students, as it offers numerous benefits, including improved brain function, enhanced concentration, and stimulated imagination and creativity. •

• Reading improves brain function and cognitive abilities
• Enhances concentration and focus
• Stimulates imagination and creativity
• Relieves stress and promotes relaxation

Moreover, reading is a powerful tool for acquiring knowledge, sharpening analytical and critical thinking skills, and improving language and communication abilities. Its lasting benefits include keeping curiosity alive and helping individuals find deeper meaning in life. Inspiration to read Certain events and individuals can inspire young minds to take up reading as a hobby. World Books and Copyright Day, celebrated annually on April 23 across the globe, is one such event. The theme for 2025 is "Read Your Way," which emphasizes individual freedom and choice in reading. It encourages readers to explore a variety of genres and formats until they discover what resonates with them.

1. Physical books or e-books
2. Fiction or non-fiction
3. Traditional prose novels or modern graphic novels

The theme also invites young readers to explore different genres and formats until they discover what they love, at their own pace. It's not about reading what's popular or prescribed; it's about discovering what they love, and that's what matters most. A great philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie, once said, "A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never-failing spring in the desert." He established hundreds of public libraries, making books accessible to millions, and significantly advancing the public library movement in the U.S.

Andrew Carnegie's Public Library Donations	Year	Amount (in millions)
Between 1881 and 1929	Approximately 2,509 public libraries across several countries	$56 million

If philanthropists in India took similar initiatives to build public libraries, it would be wonderful. Schools can also make their libraries more accessible to both teachers and students, encouraging regular visits and allowing them to freely choose books that interest them. Launching book clubs and inviting writers, journalists, and academics to speak about books can further inspire students to read and discuss literature with their peers.

"The Patron Saint of Libraries" once said, "I believe that it is the mission of the library to serve the community, and I believe that the community should have the right to the use of the library." - Andrew Carnegie

A dedicated National Book Day in India would be a great step forward in promoting reading. Will the Ministry of Education take the lead in this initiative?

As an ELT resource person and education columnist, I believe that it's our responsibility to nurture the love of reading among our young students and adults.