Daily Times

Sir: We have a few libraries in Pakistan. The existing public libraries are in bad shape and they are grossly neglected by the government. If we compare our libraries with those of developed countries, we can observe a marked difference in their facilities and performance. Our libraries are inadequately equipped. On top of this our people scantly and rarely use them.

Wherever the libraries are found, they are infrequently visited by students. No one takes pains to promote reading habits. It is extremely important to promote interest in reading and research. The question is how can we achieve this goal? The answer is very simple. The concerned authorities should allocate a period for library in the schools. Students must spend quality time in libraries attached with the schools.

This will not only inculcate reading habit among students but also prepare them towards research, which is the foundation of higher studies. This will prepare our students to compete with others in the world. It will enhance their ability to learn and pursue higher education. In this way we can promote research in different scientific disciplines. We must initiate this exercise from primary stage.

JAVAID BASHIR

Lahore