Libraries serve as direct sources of information exchange, making it crucial for staff to provide reliable information to readers and avoid contributing to the spread of disinformation.
This is likely why, as part of the fight against disinformation, there is a decision to establish media centers in libraries and involve libraries in this process. Librarians shouldn’t pass on unverified information, however, there are instances when a librarian may still provide incorrect details, whether about the author, specific episodes from their biography, or the book itself. Not to mention that, during your conversation, you might encounter unreliable news from other topics as well.
This is unacceptable to me. Libraries play a crucial role in education and must uphold high media literacy standards. This ensures that schoolchildren and students, who are the primary visitors to the library, do not encounter misinformation.
This resembles a closed loop: for a schoolchild, the librarian is a figure of authority. The child consults the librarian for recommendations on what books to read and what topics to explore. Trusting the librarian’s guidance also means trusting any information the librarian provides. To ensure that this information is not false, manipulative, or inaccurate, the librarian must not fall victim to misinformation. They must have the ability to distinguish between fact and falsehood.
Besides, the question is whether people go to libraries to find media centers that fight disinformation. I don’t think so. Why? Because books are available – they’re available online and in bookstores.
They visit the library when they need a textbook or literature that doesn’t make sense to buy, for example, when they need it only for writing a research paper.
I personally love visiting the National Library because the atmosphere is very inviting. When you go there, you feel encouraged to sit for a long time and read; it’s a vibe. Are there similar environments in other libraries? Honestly, I don’t think so.We often overlook that a library is more than just a collection of books; it also includes librarians, the atmosphere, and the overall spirit of reading. Unfortunately, our libraries fall short in these aspects. Many young people read more psychological and philosophical books, as well as bestsellers and English literature, which are not available in our local libraries. Throughout the country, you might come across a few libraries that have a truly knowledgeable librarian. These librarians can sit down with you to discuss books and recommend your next read. There are also cafes where the reading atmosphere is so inviting that you feel compelled to spend time there, taking a book, curling up, sipping tea, and enjoying a good read. So, why can’t we create that same environment in a library?
I want to emphasize that just because people don’t visit libraries doesn’t mean they don’t read.
In the past, we were taught to start with classical literature before deciding whether to explore popular literature. However, the new generation approaches reading in a different way. They often begin with modern or popular literature, eventually progressing to classical works.
Do libraries offer a curated list of literature, along with librarians who are familiar with these selections? I doubt that all librarians have read every title on such a list.
Schoolchildren often do not read the assigned books; instead, they prefer authors like Agatha Christie and Ruben Yesayan. Let them start with lighter literature before transitioning to more serious, classic works. Why do we insist that everyone start with Dostoevsky? It’s essential to change our approach and consider the preferences and needs of the current generation.
I was fortunate to have a young librarian at the college library. We would often chat about various topics, life, and everyday challenges. As we grew more comfortable in that environment, we started to take an interest in the books available there․ We actively explored different books to read, flipping through them on-site and taking some with us. We held discussions, watched films, and engaged in anonymous conversations on the library’s website. Additionally, we recorded videos of our discussions. Viewing the library solely as a collection of books can be limiting.
At the age of 14 or 15, books can seem very distant for children. t’s important to help children connect with literature, especially in today’s digital age, where video and visual media dominate and often overshadow books. Convincing a teenager to choose a book over an animated show can be particularly challenging, especially when the book has no illustrations and features small print.
I cannot imagine a better way to cultivate a love for reading. I strongly believe that libraries should establish media centers that create an inviting atmosphere, allowing young people the freedom to spend time there and complete their homework.
Araks Safaryan
Literary Scholar, Graphic Designer
