Nal’ibali Leads Push to Bring Back the Culture of Reading in South African Homes

A love for reading often begins in the simplest way, through stories shared at home that spark imagination and bring families closer together.

These everyday moments of reading can shape a child’s confidence, curiosity, and lifelong relationship with books.

Nal’ibali Trust will commemorate the 2026 International Day of Families with a special community literacy event taking place on Friday, 15 May 2026 at Poortjie Library, located at the Poortjie Community Centre near Grasmere in Region G, Johannesburg.

The initiative will bring together parents, caregivers, children, educators, and community members for storytelling sessions, reading activities, and family literacy engagement aimed at encouraging a stronger culture of reading-for-enjoyment in South African homes.

Now in this exclusive Q&A with Africa Jamz FM News, Nal’ibali opens up about the decline of reading culture in modern households, the emotional and educational power of storytelling, and why community literacy programmes remain essential in shaping confident young readers and stronger communities.

1. In an era dominated by phones, social media, and short-form content, do you believe South Africa is slowly losing its culture of reading at home — and what impact is that having on children?

“Not at all. Through the work we do across all nine provinces, we have witnessed the important role families play in nurturing a culture of reading, not only through parents and guardians, but also through siblings reading to younger siblings.

“There has also been a noticeable shift in how children engage with reading due to the rise of technology. Many households now use smartphones and tablets to read to children or allow them to explore and read their favourite stories independently. When used intentionally for reading, learning, and schoolwork, technology can become a powerful literacy tool.

“However, we cannot ignore the negative impact technology can have when it is not used responsibly. Excessive screen time and unrestricted access to non-educational content can affect children’s concentration, learning habits, and overall development. The key is ensuring that technology supports literacy and learning rather than replacing meaningful reading experiences and human interaction, said Nal’ibali.

2. Nal’ibali promotes “reading for enjoyment” rather than reading as pressure or schoolwork. Why is enjoyment such an important part of literacy development, especially for young children?

“When children enjoy reading, they engage more, learn more, and build confidence naturally. That is why we promote reading for enjoyment. Enjoyment makes reading meaningful and helps children develop curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love for books. It also improves comprehension, vocabulary, and confidence because children learn best when they are engaged and emotionally connected. For young children, enjoyable reading builds positive bonds with caregivers and helps them see books as a source of comfort and connection. Ultimately, children who enjoy reading are more likely to become lifelong readers and learners,” said Nal’ibali.

3. Many parents today are overwhelmed by work, financial pressures, and busy schedules. What are some realistic ways families can still create meaningful storytelling or reading moments at home?

“We urge parents and caregivers to set aside just 15 minutes a day for reading at home. It can be a simple routine before bed, after dinner, or during a quiet moment. During this time, families can switch off devices and read together, take turns, or listen to stories. The focus is on connection, not perfection.
These moments build vocabulary, confidence, and stronger family bonds, helping children develop a love for reading over time. Storytelling can also go beyond books, using daily experiences, memories, or imagination. Consistency and enjoyment are key to making reading a shared family habit,” said Nal’ibali.

4. Beyond improving literacy, how does storytelling and reading together contribute to a child’s emotional wellbeing, confidence, and relationship with their family?

“Beyond literacy, storytelling and shared reading support children’s emotional wellbeing, confidence, and family bonds. They create safe, shared spaces where children feel valued and connected, while helping them understand and express emotions. Reading aloud also supports children with comprehension or concentration challenges by making stories easier to follow at their own pace. It builds confidence by encouraging children to imagine, express themselves, and participate freely. At a family level, even short reading moments strengthen relationships and create lasting connection,” said Nal’ibali.

5. Community libraries were once central spaces for learning and connection. In today’s digital age, what role do libraries and community literacy programmes still play in shaping stronger communities and future generations?

“Community libraries and literacy programmes (reading clubs) remain vital in the digital age because they provide free access to books, guided learning, and safe spaces for connection. They help bridge inequality by supporting children who lack resources at home, while promoting reading for enjoyment through storytelling, reading clubs, and community activities. Libraries also support children with comprehension or confidence challenges through patient, guided learning at their own pace. Importantly, they bring families and communities together, strengthening relationships and shared learning across generations.
Overall, libraries remain key to building confident readers, inclusive learning, and stronger communities,” said Nal’ibali.

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