From shelves to society, librarians lead the way
PUTRAJAYA: Librarians serve not only as custodians of reading materials but also as agents of social transformation, facilitators of information and promoters of an inclusive reading culture, says Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
The National Unity Minister said librarians play a vital role in nation-building and cultivating noble values aligned with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani, which emphasises the development of a knowledgeable, united and cultured society.
'A nation's excellence relies on the depth of knowledge and unity among its people.
'As such, the role of librarians is crucial in nurturing a passion for knowledge, shaping the values of society and contributing to holistic national development,' he said in a statement in conjunction with Librarians' Day yesterday, Bernama reported.
Aaron said Librarians' Day not only recognises the significant contributions of this group but also elevates the profession as a key driver of knowledge-based societal development.
He said there are currently 1,149 librarians in Malaysia – 148 at the National Library, 139 in state public libraries, one in a community library, 210 in special libraries and 651 in academic libraries.
Aaron added that the National Unity Ministry greatly values the commitment of librarians in supporting the National Reading Decade 2021-2030 initiative, which aims to make Malaysia a Reading Nation by 2030.
'This endeavour requires active participation from all parties, with librarians leading the way in promoting reading habits, enhancing digital literacy and fostering an information-literate society,' he said.
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