‘Reading opens doors to new worlds’

Reading sharpens minds, strengthens vocabulary, and keeps imagination alive —benefits that go beyond the pages of a book.

This was the message of the Friends of Durbanville Library non-profit organisation while reflecting on the International Literacy Day, which was on Sunday September 8.

“Reading opens doors to new worlds, enhances our understanding, and cultivates empathy by allowing us to see through the eyes of others,” Idelyn Kennedy, the chairperson of of the organisation told Northern News.

The non-profit organisation is made up of a group of older pensioners who enjoy gathering books, sorting and organising them for sales. The funds raised from these sales also support library events, children’s activities, and other programming that enrich the community.

Libraries play important role in promoting literacy by offering free access to an ever-growing collection of books and resources, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the gift of reading, Ms Kennedy said.

“This day (Sunday), dedicated to literacy, reminds us of the importance of libraries in fostering a love of learning and lifelong growth.”

Ms Kennedy said she is a retired Mathematics teacher from Durbanville and that she reads widely to be exposed to other countries, periods of history and different cultures to increases her knowledge in different subjects.

Her favourite books include Finding Endurance: Shackleton, My Father and a World Without End by Darrel Bristow-Bovey; The Thursday Murder Club, a novel by Richard Osman and Clive Staples Lewis’s books on Christianity among many others.

“As we celebrate International Literacy Day, let us remember that reading is a gift that keeps on giving. Through books, we can continue to grow, learn, and connect with the world around us,” she said.