"I returned to that library of pleasant memories a few yesterdays ago for some heartache. Surely a developing country is one that is developing – that is, moving generally from slightly-good to rather-better. The seventies' library was a pleasant, clean, space. I did not have to wash my hands after touching the books. The child in me was drawn to books with colourful covers. On the evidence of Asaba's library in 2011, we are an undeveloping nation. The library's floor is now as pitted as Lagos/Benin highway at Ore. Several bookshelves are emptied of books. Those books that are left are dusty and ancient, clearly leftovers from the stock I read back then.
There is one positive thing though: the library was full of children. At the time of my visit, most of the seats were taken: but the kids have not come to borrow or browse. They have come to read their own notes, to study for their exams. The exciting, panoramic vision that the library presented in the seventies has become a tunnel vision pointing back to our sad myopia. Asaba's library is now a reading room for desperate children who have no study space at home.
We should be doing better."
- Chuma Nwokolo
I agree. Ah! Nigeria! Oro pe si je! Read the rest of this stirring and sad commentary here.
- Ikhide
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