ZODML urges proliferation of libraries

“Libraries allow children to ask questions about the world and find the answers. And the wonderful thing is that once a child learns to use a library, the doors to learning are always open.”        

The above quote by the former first lady of the United States, Laura Bush, synopsises the viewpoint of Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML), a non-governmental organisation, committed to the donation of library facilities to Lagos public schools and communities.

Speaking during the commissioning and hand-over ceremony of four new libraries within Surulere Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), the Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Ms. Ego Mbagwu, said bearing in mind the overriding importance of library in national, and an individual’s life, government at all levels, including well-meaning Nigerians should help establish more libraries in Nigerian schools and communities.

She maintained that exposing children to good reading habit early in life, guarantees a safe and secured future for all, adding that a functional library is very imperative in a people’s life as it offers them opportunity to broaden their learning horizon.

She said, “It is often said that a child who reads will be an adult who thinks. Our mission is to provide free channels through which adult and children can access information and learning tools. In the word of Jacqueline Kennedy, ‘There are many ways to enlarge your child’s world, love of books is the best of all.’ Through these libraries and different reading programmes, we hope to help the Nigerian child develop love for books.

“We are therefore calling on the federal and state governments, and all other public spirited individuals to join in the task of establishing more libraries in schools and communities, since an educated community promises a more peaceful and progressive existence.”

Chairman, ZODML Board of Trustees, Mrs. Ifeoma Esiri, while addressing pupils of Animashaun Primary School, Aguntasolo Primary School, Obele Odan Primary School, Ansar-Ud-Deen Primary School, Adeniji Primary School and Al-Wajuud Primary School, all in Surulere LGEA, enumerated the immense benefits of good reading habit. 

In her response, Education Secretary, Surulere LGEA, Mrs. Fatoke Yetunde, laudied the organisation for investing in the future of the pupils, stating that primary education is the foundation of all learning.