The contribution of the public library in promoting reading culture among library users in Rwanda

Abstract

Purpose

This study examined the contribution of the public library in promoting reading culture among library users in Rwanda.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a case study research design, with a qualitative approach where data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions.

Findings

The findings show that the library was being used by most library users for reading. However, most library users utilized the library for the purposes of gaining knowledge and relaxation. Among the factors that hinder library users from reading in the library included long distances to reach the public library, financial constraints, addiction to watching television and other viewing gadgets, difficulty in distinguishing main ideas from relevant details, slow reading rate, inadequate reading interests, unavailability of reading materials and inadequate vocabularies.

Research limitations/implications

The public library helps to promote the reading culture among library users and acts as a link to socio-economic discussions; however, there are factors that hinder effective reading culture.

Originality/value

The study is among the few ever to be carried out in the Rwandan setting owing to the nature of its public library services being focused on a varying category of users from academics to other citizens.