Lerutle Primary encourages learners to develop reading habits

Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his needs, is good for him. – Maya Angelou

To celebrate International School Library Month the educators of Lerutle Primary School reminded their learners what the power and love of books can ignite in them.

On October 27, the learners participated in various reading activities as a way of promoting reading and literacy.

The school believes in empowering learners through different mediums and their library is one such tool.

International School Library Month is an opportunity for those in charge of school libraries around the world to choose a day, week, or the entire month in October to celebrate the importance of school libraries and to celebrate everything great about them.

Deputy principal Mmatani Moerane said when they reopened on October 11 for the last term, they started taking the Grade Rs to the library.

“We educated them about what is a library, what it is used for and why do we visit it. We want to promote reading while they are still young,” said Moerane.

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“We have encouraged the learners to bring old newspapers to class and every day they all have 10 minutes to read the paper. This will help them to be more fluent in English. Minister of Education Angie Motshekga once said the reading skills of learners in lower grades are not at the required level.”

Moerane said they also encourage the learners to read their indigenous languages from Grade R.

“We have audio reading even though we are lacking material due to lack of finances. We would love to have a library that the learners can use every day but we don’t have enough books because we rely on the government for funds.

“We have started a book drive where teachers would donate books but we also accept donations from the public.

“At one time learners had to visit a nearby library to borrow books, but now we want to create such a learning environment on the school premises,” she said.

The deputy principal added that the reading gogos also used to visit their school but they have stopped due to Covid-19.

“They were doing a stunning job; they would come every Friday to read for the learners and at the end of the year they would host a celebration.

“At least the Ekurhuleni mobile library visits the school twice a month, which makes a difference.”

The school would appreciate any donations of books. To donate contact them on 011 424 3900 or drop off the books at the school at 12533 Montsha Street, Daveyton.

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