Can Books Break the Barriers?
In 2023, a UNESCO report revealed a shocking fact: Over 750 million adults and children worldwide still lack basic reading and writing skills. Though unfortunate, such a statistic is not completely unprecedented. In low-income communities, the cost of books and educational materials are significant barriers limiting access to education. Moreover, public libraries and educational institutions are underfunded in many regions. Hence, they lack the resources to make books more accessible as well.
This is especially problematic, as limited access to books directly correlates to lower literacy rates. A 2019 study by the World Literacy Foundation found that children who did not have access to books scored significantly lower on reading assessments, as compared to their counterparts who did have access to books. Therefore, this emphasises how a lack of access to books can hinder academic performance, and long-term socio-economic mobility as a whole.
Access to books is also crucial to these communities for several reasons. Firstly, books can reflect diverse experiences that help marginalised individuals see themselves represented. For example, a book with diverse characters may allow readers to foster a greater sense of self-esteem, by having relatable moments or struggles. Thus, this would allow them to have a greater sense of acceptance, and help them feel validated in society.
Additionally, these marginalised groups can also benefit from new perspectives that are introduced through books. Exploring lives different from their own allows individuals to gain more knowledge about the world around them and find their place in the wider community. As a result, these individuals become more globalised, and are better able to navigate the complex and uncertain challenges in society.
Lastly, the literacy and knowledge gained through books is also extremely valuable. It provides marginalised individuals with the tools to access better opportunities through the development of relevant 21st Century skills like critical thinking or empathy. Consequently, this would empower them to challenge stereotypes, and help break the cycle of marginalisation in the wider community.
In conclusion, books are more than just tools for education. They are lifelines for empowerment, representation, and solidarity. They are essential to help individuals break out of the margins. Although access to books is currently not universal, there have been efforts established to enable greater access. For instance, activists have been working with local and national governments to prioritise literacy programs and funding for libraries in underserved areas. Thus, by rallying behind such efforts, activists can help to ensure that the transformative power of books reaches the hands of those who need them most.
