State’s public book nooks will hold more activities to attract higher number of visitors
Johor’s public libraries will see the introduction of more fun and engaging programmes to encourage reading and lifelong learning.
State education and information committee chairman Aznan Tamin said Johor Public Library Corporation (PPAJ) organised about 100 educational activities last year and he has challenged them to do even more this year.
“I have set a target for them to organise at least 150 programmes this year, with the hope of surpassing last year’s visitor record of 2.1 million people.
“One of the key events lined up is PPAJ’s annual book bazaar.
“I have also suggested expanding it into an international event by inviting authors and publishers from Batam in Indonesia and Singapore,” he said.
Aznan, who is also a PPAJ board chairman, said the book bazaar, which usually attracted tens of thousands, could be held at a shopping centre in Iskandar Puteri for better accessibility as it was close to the ferry terminal to Batam.
He said PPAJ’s main library was located in Jalan Yahya Awal, Johor Baru, and the corporation has 16 branches and 38 community libraries throughout the state.
“The main library also serves as a transit point for pupils attending the religious school located next door.
“They usually play in the compound while waiting for classes or for their parents to pick them up,” he said.
He added that PPAJ offered fun activities to keep the pupils engaged during this time.
PPAJ is also collaborating with Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to develop programmes and share insights.
Both institutions recently signed a memorandum of understanding to transform the library into a space that would connect academia with the wider community.
Last year, PPAJ collaborated with Southern University College on an art exhibition and public forum.
“Recently, we partnered with the National University of Singapore’s Malay Studies Depart-ment to organise a series of forums on Johor’s history, heritage and culture,” said Aznan.
“We are also curating a special book collection to be displayed this August,” he said.
He hopes such collaborations with higher learning institutions will help inspire young minds and encourage them to pursue higher education.
“With more diverse and interactive programmes, Johor’s libraries aim to become not just reading spaces but also vibrant community hubs for knowledge and culture,” he added.
