27 Jul 2015

Libraries offer services that are essential for both elders and the youth.

Therefore a library should be used as a vehicle that transforms communities into an informed society.

Speaking in an interview, Ms Oduetse Babotse, a library assistant in Hukuntsi, said it was worrisome that adults in Hukuntsi were not visiting or utilising library services meant for them as a community.

She said they had learned that this was influenced by ignorance and the old believe that reading and modern technology was for the younger generation.

She said at least 10 adults aged 40 years and above visited the library once in a month.

Hukuntsi library has been equipped with computers and internet as a way of bridging the gap towards digital change hence it.

“We offer free computer lessons for those who are not computer literate especially adults.

They should step up and enrol moreso that computers are the next medium of communication that will eventually take over from radios and books” she said.

Furthermore she highlighted that the library had no age limit and as such adults in the village were welcome not only to read but also to teach the younger generation about culture.

Meanwhile, Ms Babotse revealed that since the introduction of internet the number of youth who visited the library had rapidly increased and they could record a total of 114 youth in a month against 80 before internet connection.

She said even though computers are not enough, the internet is wireless and they offer password for easy access to both personal laptops and smart phones.

She further decried lack of new and updated books as a cause for concern to the readers.

She however warned internet users that other websites like pornography sites are prohibited in the library. Ends