It is common knowledge that libraries play a vital role in the development of any society.
KARACHI: It is common knowledge that libraries play a vital role in the development of any society. However, in recent times, especially in Pakistan, the ever-decreasing trend of going to libraries and making use of the books available has led to inevitable consequences in the form of social chaos and upheaval, which have sprung directly from the ignorance and indifference of people towards this essential source of knowledge.
What is more, many of the major publishing houses have shut down, for mainly two reasons — first, due to a lack of good quality literature available for publishing, and second, the books published in due course just sit on the shelves collecting dust without any eager buyers approaching them. As a result, the general public finds it increasingly difficult to understand and comprehend the very essence of classical, as well as contemporary literature.
It is about time the authorities concerned, as well as the citizens, responded appropriately to stop this trend from continuing. It would do a world of good to our society, people and culture.
Anne Ahmad
Published in The Express Tribune, April 20th, 2013.
