Sustainability of Book Clubs in a Rural Setting in Limpopo Province: A Case of Re-atlegile Book Club

Abstract

The level of illiteracy in South Africa, especially in rural areas, is considered high. Reading clubs are one of the major tools used for improving literacy levels in rural areas. This qualitative study explored the sustainability of reading clubs in rural settings in Limpopo Province, South Africa, with a view to promoting reading. Qualitative data were collected through telephone interviews from five Re-atlegile Book Club members in Dikgale Village of Limpopo Province. Responses were thematically transcribed to obtain an indication of ways in which the reading club is sustained to promote the culture of reading in rural areas. It was found that, despite the large number of learners registered for the book club, there is a lack of reading materials and reading spaces to cater for all children. The participants indicated that they relied extensively on materials received from Nal’ibali, a national reading campaign of the University of Limpopo targeting children and lecturers. It is argued that sustaining book clubs in rural areas requires support from non-governmental organisations (NGOs), but most importantly, from the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC), as it is mandated to provide information services. This study recommends that the DAC, as well as the National Library of South Africa (NLSA), should support book clubs to ensure their sustainability. This could be achieved through book donations, the creation of reading spaces in public libraries, and obtaining funds from outside sources to purchase reading materials for book clubs.