LIBRARIES are not merely centres of knowledge but can be made into second homes to build the reading habit, creativity and positive values in children.
Deputy National Unity Minister K. Saraswathy said parents played an important role in helping their children regard libraries as places for reading, discussion and to instil a love for writing.
Such habits could indirectly strengthen familial bonds through mutually beneficial activities, she said.
“Encourage children to visit libraries more often as it will not only expand their minds but also unite families through reading, discussions and appreciation of values.
“The experience of visiting libraries in person gives a deeper impact, as children can learn while appreciating the surroundings and seeing others reading,” she said in a Bernama report.
Saraswathy was speaking at the launch of Amanda Rescues the Dino Egg, a book written by nine-year-old Aayushi Yogeswaran.
It was held in conjunction with the Selangor International Book Fair (SIBF) 2025 to celebrate the young author’s achievement.
“The books children read becomes part of their life experience and knowledge that forms their thinking and personality.
“Libraries are not just a place of learning but an area to foster close familial ties and cultivate a consistent reading habit,” said the deputy minister.
Amanda Rescues the Dino Egg is Aayushi’s third book.
It aims to inspire children to write and appreciate values like bravery, responsibility and purity.
The book shows that children can achieve great things if they are supported, motivated and given appropriate opportunities.
SIBF 2025 at Setia City Convention Centre, Shah Alam, was organised by Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS).
