Barishal hosts divisional readers’ gathering

BARISHAL, Aug 6: A divisional readers’ gathering was held at the Barishal Divisional Public Library on Thursday bringing together more than 500 reader-members from all six districts of Barishal division. Six mobile library vans under the nationwide Mobile Library Project also participated. The programme featured a colourful rally, a mobile book fair, cultural performances and a prize distribution ceremony.

Divisional Commissioner Khalil Ahmed attended as the chief guest. Special guests included Md Billal Hossain Khan, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Project Director Mosammat Mariam Begum, and Principal Librarian of the Barishal Divisional Public Library Md Belayet Hossain. Dr Md Saifullah Bin Anwar, additional deputy inspector general of Barishal Range, chaired the programme.

Speaking at the event, Khalil Ahmed described students as the mirror of society. He said reading books helps spread the light of knowledge and inspires young people to build an enlightened society free from discrimination.

Joint Secretary Md Billal Hossain Khan said the government, under the prime minister’s directive, is giving priority to cultural activities and sports. He said greater participation in reading, culture and sports can help reduce excessive dependence on digital devices.