The National Librarian, Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi has emphasized the belief of National Library of Nigeria that education and access to knowledge should never be the privilege of a few but the right of every Nigerian child, irrespective of background or location, deserves the opportunity to learn and dream big.
Prof. Anunobi stated this during the 25th edition and Silver Jubilee Anniversary of the Nigeria International Book Fair held at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts Iganmu Lagos State, with the theme: Education for All: Closing the Gap on Nigeria’s Out-of-School Children.
In her goodwill message, the National Librarian/CEO commended the organizers for sustaining the avenue for over a quarter of a century, adding that stakeholders in the Nigerian book and knowledge system have continued to move forward with resilience and commitment, underscoring the fact that what we do is not business but carrying out the mandate of packaging and extending knowledge for the betterment of the human race.
She further informed the audience that NLN being the nation's foremost knowledge repository, remains committed to promoting literacy, learning, equitable access to information and the development of an informed and educated society. “The NLN over the years has continued to champion initiatives aimed at promoting reading culture and extending learning opportunities to underserved and hard-to-reach populations”, she stated.
Prof. Anunobi further intimated participants that National Library through deliberate efforts has facilitated the establishment of over 50 Literacy Centres and over 109 Book Clubs across the country though partnership community support system and branch level engagements. These Centres according to her, continues to provide reading environment, literacy opportunities and learning support for children, youths and vulnerable members of the society. She therefore sought support from stakeholders to enable the NLN provide resources/literacy materials for the Centres.
The NIBF is an annual event which brings together publishers, printers, exhibitors, booksellers, authors, librarians and students to promote the book ecosystem in Nigeria and across Africa.