Quiet library

Quiet library

From Republika

I was saddened on reading the article published in Republika (March 26, 1996) entitled 'Perpustakaan yang kesepian' (unfrequented libraries). Why are libraries, particularly the National Library on Jl Salemba Raya in Central Jakarta, not used?

To be admitted to the National Library one must at least be in the third year of senior high school, making the other junior students ineligible for membership.

How can youngsters be encouraged to visit libraries when an age limit is placed upon them? Also the National Library does not serve as a lending library. The books can only be read in the library's reading room.

Reading in the library for just a few hours is not enough time to allow the user to complete his school assignment.

I know that in the United States, libraries allow lenders to take up to 40 books home to study. I know that in Indonesia libraries are still far from that stage. But, at least, the reading habit of youngsters can be promoted by making libraries more accessible to them.

DINA M.

Jakarta