Dhaka: Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md Abdullah Harun emphasized the importance of cultivating a reading habit to develop a knowledge-based society, asserting that true distinction cannot be achieved without reading books. He made these remarks as the chief guest at a divisional-level readers' rally and cultural programme held at the auditorium of the Divisional Government Public Library in Boyra.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event aimed to promote reading habits and foster a knowledge-based society. It was organized under the Mobile Library (3rd Revised) Project, implemented by the Directorate of Public Libraries under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro. The divisional commissioner highlighted the government's various initiatives to encourage the younger generation to become avid readers and stressed the need for concerted efforts to ensure the success of these initiatives.
The commissioner further noted that regular reading is crucial for developing students into competent and skilled citizens. He urged parents and teachers to inspire children to read books and avoid excessive use of mobile phones. He added that books enrich knowledge and that developing a habit of buying and reading books would contribute to building a more enlightened nation.
The programme was chaired by Deputy Commissioner of Khulna Hoore Jannat. Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Project Director Md. Billal Hossain Khan and Director (Joint Secretary) of the Directorate of Public Libraries Mariam Begum participated as special guests. Senior Librarian of the Divisional Government Public Library Md. Saiful Islam delivered the welcome address.
The event saw attendance from officials of various government offices, cultural personalities, guardians, teachers, students, and media representatives. The organizers reported that 76 mobile libraries are currently operating across all 64 districts of the country.
Prizes were distributed among winners of different competitions held in conjunction with the readers' rally, and guests visited the mobile book fair before a cultural programme was staged. Earlier, a colorful procession began from the premises of the Divisional Government Public Library in Boyra, marched through different city roads, and concluded at the same venue, involving students and individuals from various walks of life.
A four-day book fair, featuring five stalls offering books at a 30 percent discount, has been arranged on the library premises and will conclude on August 1.