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Libraries: The Heart of Knowledge in a Modern Society |
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In this era of rapid technological advancement and economic growth, the
government has provided various facilities to improve the quality of life for
its people. Among the most valuable of these is the library—an institution that
has stood the test of time, tracing its roots back to the golden age of Islamic
civilization. For instance, during the Abbasid Caliphate, Caliph Umar bin Abdul
Aziz established Baitul Hikmah, a renowned library that served as a hub for
preserving knowledge, translating texts, and gathering scholars. Today,
libraries across the nation continue to serve a similar purpose: as centers of
knowledge for all, enriched with modern amenities like high-speed internet
access. The benefits are clear—but whether society chooses to take advantage of
these resources is a matter of will, because as the saying goes, what is round
does not roll on its own, and what is flat will not float by itself.
One of the main advantages of the library is that it provides access to a wealth
of knowledge for students and the general public. Libraries are home to
countless works of literature, science, and thought from all over the world and
across different languages. Some even house ancient texts authored by brilliant
minds of the past. With such rich content at our fingertips, it’s vital that we
make the effort to visit and utilize these spaces—be it for research, reading,
or personal enrichment. A calm and quiet environment makes the library an ideal
place for deep thinking and discovery, living up to the saying “Reading is the
bridge to knowledge.” Whether it’s religion, philosophy, humanities, or science
and technology, the knowledge found in libraries supports us like a backbone,
helping us move forward in life. Ultimately, knowledge empowers individuals—and
libraries are the gateways to that empowerment.
Beyond being centers of learning, libraries also offer a meaningful way to spend
free time, especially for youth and students. Unlike in the past, libraries
today are fully equipped with air conditioning, computers, and internet
facilities that cater to modern needs. These features make libraries attractive
alternatives to less productive pastimes, providing a space that’s both relaxing
and beneficial. For example, the Sultan Ismail Library in Johor Bahru has
introduced interactive learning zones, including a mini Petrosains and a Dewan
Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) corner, to encourage young visitors. Such initiatives
show that libraries are more than just book depositories—they are vibrant
community hubs. Managing our time wisely is crucial, and as the proverb reminds
us, “Time is like a sword—if you don’t cut it, it will cut you.”
In addition, libraries play a crucial role in fostering a culture of reading,
especially among young people. Parents have a vital role to play in this—by
regularly bringing their children to the library, they can nurture early reading
habits. The saying “Bend the sapling while it is still young” perfectly captures
the importance of starting early. Parents who model reading behavior—whether by
borrowing books, browsing newspapers, or using library facilities—can instill
the same values in their children. With access to age-appropriate content like
comics, journals, newspapers, and scientific materials, young readers can
explore what truly interests them. A strong reading culture helps produce a
generation equipped to lead the nation. We can look to Japan as an example:
their success as a modern nation is deeply rooted in a widespread love for
reading. Clearly, a nation that reads is a nation that leads.
In conclusion, nothing created by Allah is without purpose—and libraries are no
exception. These houses of knowledge must be preserved, expanded, and upgraded
to meet modern demands, so they remain attractive and relevant. As members of
society, particularly students, we must make the most of the facilities provided
and take the initiative to seek knowledge. The benefits of libraries are
undeniable, but it is up to us to embrace them—because ultimately, the key to
progress lies in our own hands. The round will not roll, and the flat will not
float—unless we make it happen. |
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