Empowering the mind

The National Library Board’s key mission is to provide Singaporeans with easily accessible and globally-connected library and information services – to nurture a knowledgeable and intellectually-engaged society.

The National Library Board (NLB) operates an island-wide network of 69 libraries serving all age groups – from seniors to toddlers – thus making it easy for Singaporeans to use its services.

Creating a nation of readers

One of the most important elements of the NLB’s strategy of creating a knowledgeable society is to get the young into the habit of reading.

This is the reason why the NLB has initiated pro-family activities so that both kids and adults are motivated to use the library.

A breathtaking diversity of programmes

The NLB offers many pro-family programmes. Examples include:-

• Helping parents to infuse early literacy skills in their toddlers through their reading programmes
• Encouraging parents who wish to cultivate the reading habit in their children through the development of self-sustained learning communities
• Providing parents with ideas and advice to get their kids into the habit of reading through advisory clinics
• Helping kids from low-income families develop the love of reading through reading programmes organised by NLB volunteers and community self-help groups

Besides targeting parents, the NLB also boost a variety of programmes for teens, young adults, and seniors.

The infrastructure

The NLB has also implemented facilities to make it easier for families to use its premises:

• Ramps have been built onto the main entrances of many libraries to enable easy entry for wheelchair-bound visitors and parents with strollers
• Toilets for the disabled
• Reserved areas for the disabled to park their vehicles at some of the libraries
• Child-friendly toilets: lower-positioned bowls and sinks
• Diaper-changing rooms

Measuring the success

Book loans for all age groups have been increasing, especially in the 7-12 and 60+ categories.

For more information on the NLB, click on www.nlb.gov.sg

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