Inculcating reading habits among Nigerian secondary schools students: the role of libraries

Gayus Yaji,Hassan S Dala,Edward Danburam

doi:10.4314/iijikm.v8i1.4

Abstract

This paper looks at reading habit as process of imbibing a culture of educating, informing and enlightening people. Inculcating reading habit is very essential for the academic achievement of children and this is made possible with the help of trained and qualified teachers who help in guiding children in developing the right attitudes and skills in reading. The paper also identifies the causes of poor reading habits in our society to include poor family environment and background, lack of functional schools and public libraries, inadequate equipment and information resources in schools, and insufficient and ineffective teachers to help the students. The paper also examines other countries that have made advancement in helping its citizens, particularly young people inculcate good reading habits and how Nigeria can learn from the experiences of those countries. The role of libraries in educating its citizens to imbibe good reading culture cannot be overemphasized. This is the only way its citizens can make advancement in their career and make meaningful contribution to the society. The paper concludes by making recommendations that all schools should have functional libraries and the local and state governments should also provide public library services in the nook and crannies of the state to make information accessible to people. This is in addition to having qualified and efficient teaching on reading culture in our secondary schools.Keywords: reading habits, reading culture, students, children, Nigeria

Highlights

One of the most important ways of developing the youths to become important people in the society is through imbibing them with reading culture through the informative, creative and inspiring works of literature that enrich life experiences
Rubin (2002) said that children with poor reading habits have a higher chance of anti-social behaviors such as delinquency, school violence, bullying, hacking computers and even examination malpractices
Efforts must be made to encourage and promote reading habits from an early age. This view is supported by Yusuf (2007), who says that children that imbibe good character during their formative years have developed good reading habit

Summary

Introduction

One of the most important ways of developing the youths to become important people in the society is through imbibing them with reading culture through the informative, creative and inspiring works of literature that enrich life experiences. Like any skill worth mastering, a reading habit requires time and dedication to develop. It is a lifelong source of enjoyment and entertainment and an affordable hobby for anyone who wants to pick up a book and read. Palani (2012) explained that reading is the identification of the symbols and the association of the appropriate meaning with them Underline or make a list of unfamiliar words and later return to each word and look it up, re-reading the sentence it appeared This helps contextualize the word and its usage in case there are multiple meanings. The ability to read well is absolutely critical to success in life

Causes of Poor Reading Habits

Need for Effective Reading Habits

Roles of Library in Promoting Reading Habits

To encourage more reading Nigerians

Findings

Conclusion