Fiji’s National Library Week: Libraries as Catalysts for Sustainable Communities

The 2025 National Library Week commenced on Ovalau, with the Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro, accentuating the pivotal role libraries play in nourishing education, fostering sustainable development, and fortifying community resilience. Launched at Bureta District School under the theme “Libraries for Sustainable Communities,” the event shed light on libraries as dynamic spaces that go beyond being mere book repositories. They are harbors of creativity, knowledge, and innovation.

Minister Radrodro highlighted the necessity of maintaining vibrant school libraries, emphasizing that it is a collective responsibility requiring the integration of library resources into lessons by teachers, parental support for home reading, and a commitment from school leaders to allocate resources effectively.

The week encourages schools to engage students in diverse activities such as poetry recitals, oratory contests, creative writing challenges, and book swaps to nurture a robust reading culture among students. The government has already poured over $72,000 into equipping 114 schools, especially in remote areas, with the essential books and library resources needed to bring library education to life.

Additionally, teacher and librarian training programs are underway to ensure libraries remain engaging and effective learning environments. Minister Radrodro reiterated that libraries are crucial for building a knowledgeable and sustainable Fiji, calling on communities to uphold their role in keeping libraries strong.

The launch of National Library Week reflects continuity in the government’s efforts to rejuvenate the cultural and educational significance of libraries through student engagement in library activities, thereby sustaining literacy and education accessibility in Fiji. Historically, similar campaigns have confirmed libraries as vibrant contributors to fostering educational growth and cultural appreciation. By embracing the potential of libraries, communities share in the pursuit of a brighter future, where education and sustainability thrive hand in hand.