Chitangala notes drop in reading culture in Lusaka

Lusaka Mayor Chilando Chitangala has observed that Lusaka and the country in general has experienced a drastic drop in the reading culture due to a number of factors which include dilapidated and lack of physical infrastructure, bad reading culture, lack or outdated reading materials and personnel to inspire readership in learners.

Speaking when she received a donation of building materials from the Library and Information Association of Zambia for the Lusaka City Council main Library located on Katondo street, Ms. Chitangala says for these challenges to be addressed, there is need for concerted efforts by all stakeholders that include, government, corporate entities and the international partners like the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AFLIA).

In a speech read on her behalf by Independence ward Councilor Mobutu Madyenkuku, Ms Chitangala says as a demonstration of its commitment to achieving this, government has taken several initiatives such as the “let’s read Zambia national mobilisation campaign”, that was launched in 2014.

She says the donation could not have come at a better time than now when the library is in need of a face lift.

Speaking at the same event, Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ), President Mutinta Nabuyanda says the donation is one of the many partnerships to come in ensuring that citizens are provided with a conducive environment in the libraries dotted around the city.

Speaking earlier, Lusaka City Council Chief Community Development Officer, Ruby Chandra says the Council library is in need of refurbishment so that the coming generations can benefit from the services being offered and improve the reading culture.