Why do children not love books?

After receiving complaints from readers about children creating a din in new library in Zhengzhou, Henan province, which had opened its doors to young students as a trial project, the authorities decided to prohibit children below 14 years from entering the library. But by keeping children confined to an open area outside the reading room, the library authorities cannot fulfill their aim of inspiring them to read books by building a reading zone exclusively for kids, says an article on gmw.cn. Excerpts:

The reality is that, despite fulfilling its promise of building a reading zone for children, the library may not succeed in instilling the love of books among children. The question the library authorities should answer is: Why are today's children not interested in reading books?

Reading books outside the syllabus is a meaningful activity that expands the scope of knowledge of a child. But most children cannot do so because of the heavy load of homework and the failure of school authorities to guide them properly. Even parents are to be blamed for not setting a good example for their children when it comes to reading books.

Also, distracted by games, toys, electronic devices, TV and the Internet, many children today don't even think of reading books.

Therefore, during summer vacations when parents have to work during daytime, residential communities should take the responsibility of providing an environment which is not only safe for children but also offers them a space to play and read books. But unfortunately, not many residential communities are willing to offer such a non-profit service on a long-term basis.