Role of School Libraries in Promoting Reading Culture Among Primary School Pupils in Calabar South, Cross River State

This study investigated the role of school libraries in promoting a reading culture among primary school pupils in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, South South Nigeria. Reading proficiency is foundational to academic achievement, and school libraries are widely recognised as critical agents in stimulating interest in reading from an early age. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from school librarians and primary school teachers in fifteen schools using structured questionnaires and observation checklists. Findings indicated that schools with functional libraries and active storytime or reading programmes demonstrated higher rates of voluntary reading among pupils. However, many libraries were poorly stocked, lacked trained librarians, and were used primarily for storage rather than learning. The study recommended that Cross River State Ministry of Education commit to staffing every school library with at least one trained library professional, funding the procurement of age-appropriate reading materials, and mandating structured library periods within the school timetable. Keywords: school library, reading culture, primary school, Calabar South, Cross River State.