For the very first time in the annals of Punjab’s history, the execution of the program for the creation of micro-libraries and the building of city walls to pinpoint the culture of small towns has commenced. The program has been initiated in Wazirabad, a literary and commercial city of Punjab.
As per the details got by Jang about the Chief Minister’s Read Punjab program, book racks for micro libraries have been installed in all public parks, bus waiting areas, and railway stations in Wazirabad.
Initially, at the start, more than 1000 books were placed in the racks of books kept at 15 different places for the masses of Wazirabad and travelers moving from other cities. However, in the next two to three months, thousands of books will be incorporated into those racks. Â
The main initiative of the program is to deliver a healthy activity through reading books to the masses sitting in parks or waiting areas near bus stops and train stations. Rainproof sheets have been installed on these racks to provide protection and safety to the books from weather effects and rain.
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Under the vision of Chief Minister Maryum Nawaz Sharif to pinpoint the culture of small towns, special walls have been constructed to exhibit the history and culture of the city in Wazirabad, Tehsil, which has now been provided the status of a district. The Wall of Wazirabad, the Wall of Alipur Chatta, and the Wall of Gakhar have been constructed in three different cities by the administration of Wazirabad, Tehsil.Â
The Read Punjab program and building of city walls are expected to pose various positive impacts.
Firstly, by making books readily accessible in public spaces, the program is proven to be an impetus for developing reading habits among residents and travelers, which will create a culture of literacy and learning, especially in towns where there is very limited access to libraries for people.
Secondly, the establishment of city walls, dedicated to showcasing local history and heritage, appears to preserve and enhance the unique identity of small towns like Wazirabad, Ghakhar, and Alipur Chatta, which will instill pride among residents as well as educate the visitors about the regional traditions.
Thirdly, this initiative is expected to provide a healthy recreational activity by encouraging the masses to spend quality time reading in public areas or other parks. This is expected to instill or inculcate spaces for community interactions and social engagement, which is centered around learning and cultural appreciation.
Fourthly, pinpointing the cultural aspects of small towns through city walls and designating heritage spots is expected to attract tourists, who are highly interested in exploring the local history of Punjab and traditions, which will highly boost the local economies.
Fifthly, for students and individuals who have limited access to books, these micro libraries are expected to provide a crucial resource for them, which will highly support education and personal development within the community.