Source: Untar Public Relations

Every May 17th, Book Day serves as an important reminder that reading is the foundation for developing critical thinking and broad insight. However, in today’s fast-paced digital era, the culture of reading faces significant challenges. Information is now more commonly consumed in visual and bite-sized formats, drawing many people away from the habit of deep, focused reading.

Ahmad Junaidi, S.S., M.Si., a lecturer at the Faculty of Communication Science, Tarumanagara University (Fikom Untar), emphasized the importance of adaptation in reigniting the love for reading. “Physical books are still important, but we also need to make use of digital platforms such as e-books, audiobooks, and literacy-focused social media,” he said.

According to him, developing a love for reading is not an instant process. The key lies in finding material that matches one’s interests and gradually building the habit. “Start with just 10 to 15 minutes a day. Any reading material, as long as it’s enjoyable, can be the gateway to embracing literacy,” he added.

Book Day is a reminder that reading is timeless. In whatever form it takes, as long as we keep turning page after page, we continue opening doors to understanding and transformation. (VC/YS/AJ)