Unplug and Immerse: Rediscover the Enchantment of Books in a Digital World – Your Guide to Timeless Reading

By Viji Thiyagarajan

I remember my first visit to the central library at JNU. The building towered above the lush Aravalis, filled with more than just books—it held adventures. Back then, finding a book was a journey. There were no quick searches. Instead, I rummaged through a huge chest of index cards, each drawer revealing a tiny treasure of information. The call number was like a map, guiding me through towering shelves to the book I sought.

Even today, I cherish that slow, intentional process. It made searching for knowledge feel like an adventure, teaching me the value of patience.

The Shifting Landscape of Reading

Today, with over 900 million Indians online and a literacy rate above 75%, the way we access books has changed dramatically. A few taps on our devices can connect us to any text we want. Yet, surprisingly, we’re reading less than before.

Recent findings from the UK’s National Literacy Trust reveal that only about 34.6% of children aged 8-18 enjoy reading—this is the lowest rate in 20 years. In the U.S., kids are also drifting away from books.

What’s taking their place? A barrage of social media, quick videos, and constant notifications. Instead of engaging deeply, we scroll mindlessly, losing our ability to focus. The term “brain rot,” named Oxford’s Word of the Year for 2024, sums up this troubling trend.

The Power of Reading

In a world dominated by short attention spans, we’re losing more than just time. A study from MIT found that using AI tools like ChatGPT can lead to reduced brain activity. We risk memory loss and diminished cognitive skills without deep reading.

Reading is essential for brain development. It improves vocabulary, sharpens critical thinking, boosts empathy, reduces stress, and even lowers the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s. Moreover, it opens doors to culture and heritage, contributing to a more equitable society—values highlighted in India’s National Education Policy 2020.

Building a Reading Culture

We need to reignite the passion for reading. Schools, parents, and communities should share this duty. Schools can spice up learning by introducing storytelling, book clubs, and even character dress-up days. Books should be celebrated, not just assigned as homework.

Parents, too, can influence by visiting bookstores with their children, reading together at home, or joining library programs like those offered by the British Council, which organize storytelling sessions.

Community efforts are also vital. Initiatives like Pratham’s StoryWeaver provide free access to diverse, multilingual children’s books, making reading accessible to all.

Inspiring examples exist. Maharashtra’s Bhilar—known as the “Village of Books”—has turned public spaces into mini-libraries. Mobile libraries venture into remote areas, ensuring everyone can access literature.

Digital advancements also play a role. Under the Smart Cities Mission, towns like Biharsharif are creating digital public libraries to support literacy and citizenship.

Embracing Technology in Reading

Today, it’s not just about how we read; it’s about the why. Reading transcends the medium—whether it’s a book or a screen, the engagement and understanding are what matter most.

Far from being a rival, technology can boost reading. With platforms that support various learning styles, we can democratize access to literature.

In India, the National Digital Library offers over 17 million resources in multiple languages. Platforms like DIKSHA use QR-coded textbooks to enhance learning, especially for students with disabilities. These resources gained traction during the pandemic and now play a crucial role in education.

Programs like NIPUN Bharat focus on improving foundational literacy and numeracy, advancing a comprehensive approach to education.

A Vision for the Future

If we want the next generation to think critically and dream big, we must nurture a love for reading. It’s not just about formats—be it print or digital—but about connecting with stories that enrich our lives.

We should strive to raise not just literate individuals, but enthusiastic readers who appreciate the magic of books. The focus should be on bridging the gap between traditional reading and digital experiences, creating a future where reading is cherished.

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Lifestyle, Lifestyle News, National Literacy Trust, Literature, Book Reading, Novels, Reading, Books