LIFELONG READING: A ROADMAP TO AN ENDURING POSITIVE CHANGE IN THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY

Abstract

The study investigated lifelong reading as a roadmap to an enduring positive changein the Nigerian society. The study dissected the conceptual clarifications: enunciatedthe inherent benefits of lifelong reading; enumerated the stakeholders in lifelongreading and their roles; articulated the challenges of sustaining lifelong reading andproffered the way forward. The study highlighted that libraries, librarians. parents,teachers, authors and publishers, among others are fundamental to actualization ofsustained lifelong reading. Libraries are integral part of the educational developmentof the children, youths and adults. Thus, the study recommended that there is the needfor establishment and maintenance of functional libraries at all levels of Nigerianeducational system. Moreso, in this digital age, children, youths and adults shouldmake functional and positive use of information and communication technology(ICT), social media platforms/networks, handheld devices, so as not to allow it form sort of distraction to creating and sustaining lifelong reading. Parents should providesupportive home environment, establish family libraries, and monitor  how their children use their time at home. Parents and teachers should also assist the children in discovering educative websites, where extensive reading, sharing of ideas among peers, and connecting readers can he achieved. Adequate fund should be provided to the National Library of Nigeria to enable more extensive and fruitfil readership promotion campaigns (RPCs). In addition. the National fibrary of Nigeria through its advocacy programmes, should solicit TETFund sponsorship of RPC so as to take it to the grassroots, among others. This is sequel to the realization that [lifelong readinghas the capacity of making the citizenry to be better informed, have a betterunderstanding of oneself, as well as others, understanding the country, itsenvironment and the world at large; becoming thoughtful and constructivecontributor to a democratic and cohesive society, thereby bringing about a positivechange in the nation. Thus. positive change engendered by lifelong reading willenlighten reform, and reawaken individuals and also make the Nigerian society better understanding of oneself. As well as others, understanding the country , its environment and the Wor;d at large; becoming thoughtful and constructive contributor to a democratic and cohesive society, thereby bringing about a positive change in the nation, Thus, positive change engendered by lifelong reading will enlighten reform, and reawaken individuals and also make the Nigerian society better.