The role of school libraries is being increasingly transformed to champion literacy initiatives and to provide a wide array of high-appeal, age-appropriate reading materials.

We recognise the increased importance of digital reading as screen print pervades our lives. The use of tablets in schools and their availability in families will provide multiple opportunities to provide e-books for reading for pleasure, even to those who may be somewhat reluctant to read print books. Digital tools are opening new horizons for literacies which have so far been inconceivable.

The objective is to render classrooms, schools and community centres as dynamic centres of reading opportunities for reading for pleasure.

We need to catch them young, therefore the emphasis is on promoting a liking for and enjoyment of books from birth. The role of parents, teachers and indeed the whole community is paramount in this national endeavour. We recognise that our programme is indeed an ambitious and long-term one. However, with a concerted effort from all those involved, we can succeed.

The National Literacy Agency is working closely with schools, the National Book Council, Malta Libraries and the wider community to bring about a culture change. Standards of literacy are indeed important.

However, we believe that reading for pleasure is crucial for increased levels of cultural well-being. There are already positive signs with an increase of 34 per cent in book borrowing from libraries in Gozo, for example.