World Book Day: A universal initiative to spread the light of knowledge
Dr. Mohammed Mahtab Hossain Mazed
The role of the book in the history of human civilization is immense. Books are the main means of conservation and infection of thousands of years of knowledge, culture, experience, invention and imagination. The book is not just a object, it is like a window, from which we can keep an eye on the corners of the earth, feel the events of different times, and expand our thoughts and feelings. World Book Day is celebrated worldwide on April 23 every year in recognition of this special role.
> History of Book Day
World Book Day was launched in the UNESCO initiative in the 1995th. There are multiple historical and literary importance behind choosing this day. On 23 April the death day of world writers such as William Shakespeare, Miguel de Servantas and Inca Garsilaso de La Veger. This day, UNESCO announces that it will be "World Book and Copyright Day" - that is, book and copyright day. The purpose was to raise awareness about reading books around the world, publishing books and protecting copyright.
> The importance of the book
* Books are not just a repository of information, it plays an important role in the formation of a human character, developing thinking and the development of society. Developing education in children's age means that future generations are made of mindful, analytical and values.
1. Education and knowledge
Books are the main elements of education. From the basic idea of a topic to higher research, there is no way to deny the role of the book. Although the digital world is spread, the demand for books has not decreased yet.
2. Psychology
The book is a reflection of the culture of a nation. Books, history, philosophy, religious texts of literature have a profound impact on our thoughts and values.
3. Peace
Many people say, "A reader lives a thousand life before he dies." - The reader gets a lot of life in one life. Reading books gives people a kind of emotional tranquility, which is very important in today's busy, mechanical life.
> The significance of Book Day in the current context
* In the digital age, people have become very mobile and internet dependent. YouTube, social media, e-book-everything is affecting people's readings. In such a reality, Book Day reminds us of the importance of books. It's not just symbolic, but a day of creating a awareness - so that people come back to the book.
* Various activities are taken in schools, colleges, universities and libraries on World Book Day - such as book fairs, lessons competition, literary chat, writers' conference etc. Celebrating this day can make people interested in reading books.
> Book Day in the context of Bangladesh
* There is a culture of reading books in Bangladesh, and the book fair has strengthened this culture. Ekushey Book Fair was held in the initiative of Bangla Academy in February every year, where new books were published and readers collect books from writers. However, it is not only developed to read the book -centric books, it must be every day of the year.
* International days like World Book Day are also celebrated in Bangladesh, though its prevalence is still limited. Focusing on this day, various educational institutions and organizations organize books distribution, curriculum, storytelling, poetry lessons etc. If these initiatives can be expanded at the village and marginal level, it is possible to make a positive change in the nation's reading.
> Books and modern technology
* A large part of the book is currently through digital-e-book, audio book, online reading platform, etc. Although these platforms have given many opportunities to readers, the importance of print books is still immense. Studies have shown that the reader is more focused on reading books and the information can be remembered longer.
* In the digital age, it is more logical to use technology as a friend rather than an enemy. With the help of technology, readings can be expanded. For example, initiatives can be taken online, creating library, audiobook app, digital platform for lessons competition.
> To do on Book Day
Person, family, educational institutions and society should take some effective initiatives on World Book Day, such as:
* Gift a book - Gift a book to a loved one.
* Organize curriculum - Organize the curriculum once a week with friends or colleagues.
* Book exchange programs - New texts can be developed by exchanging old books.
* Developing children's reading - From an early age, you need to create interest in reading books.
* Conduct as a library travel and book purchase day - Buy at least one book on this day or borrow from the library.
> Future
When a nation falls, he develops. The role of the book is important in the formation of a knowledge -based society. So around World Book Day, we have to think about how to attract people to books. Not only in the city, but in remote areas, in rural schools, children should be delivered to the children. For this reason, public-private initiatives, voluntary participation of young people and coordination of print and digital medium are essential.
Finally, I want to say that World Book Day is a unique initiative, which reminds us of the infinite power of the book. As technology goes ahead, the book will not lose its importance. Rather, books will open the door to the new era using technology. One reader is a blessing for society, and one writer is a future creator. May we swear on this book day - we will read more books, encourage others to read books, and companion to the book to create an enlightened society.
The writer is a , columnist
founder and chairman, Jatiya Rogi Kalyan Society .He can be reached at
Email, drmazed96@gmail.com
