Reading cuts across age, gender, class, and race. A free magic carpet ride is available at any moment to anywhere on Earth (or beyond). No matter their age or skill, all children should have access to written language. In addition to being adept in decoding, segmenting, and blending, readers who grow on to develop a lifelong love of literature have a sincere admiration for the power of words. We must establish a strong reading culture in schools if we hope to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
An atmosphere where reading is promoted, cherished, respected, and encouraged is known as a reading culture. Reading is at the core of the curriculum and is crucial for a child’s psychological, social, and academic development.
In a report commissioned by the National Literacy Trust, research indicates that “if reading is to become a lifelong habit, then people must see themselves as participants in a community that views reading as a significant and enjoyable activity. Parents and the home environment are essential in fostering a love of reading.”
The library used to be my favorite place when I was growing up, it held a world that could only be unlocked with my imagination and I always looked forward to going there. My siblings also loved reading, so they encouraged me in my love for reading. My dad would always buy the daily newspaper and after reading call us to come to collect and read because he knew that we loved reading a lot. My teachers and friends weren’t left out, my name was always mentioned when a book was seen or talked about.
This goes to show how a reading culture can be grown and nurtured by family, friends, school, and society.