The 6th edition of the Book and Bible Festival (FELIBI) kicked off with great enthusiasm at the national museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo, in Lingwala, centered around the theme “reading, the key to integral development”. Organized by Paulines and Médiaspaul editions, this significant cultural event is dedicated to fostering a reading culture and sparking interest in books and the Bible among the Congolese populace.
Father Patrick Nshole, the director of Félibi, emphasized the pivotal role of reading in personal and societal development. As the world commemorates World Book and Copyright Day on April 23, it is imperative to recognize the indispensable role of books in education, information dissemination, entertainment, and fostering an understanding of the multifaceted world we inhabit.
At the core of Félibi lies the accessibility of books and the Bible at affordable rates, enabling a broad audience to expand their knowledge and nurture their intellect. Reading serves as a conduit for knowledge and comprehension, contributing significantly to intellectual growth and collective advancement. By advocating for reading, the Book and Bible Festival actively contributes to the cultural and educational progress of the Congolese nation.
Sister Geneviève Aliya, representing Paulines Editions, underscored the positive impact of books on society and stressed the importance of promoting reading, particularly in a digital age where technology is increasingly dominant. Preserving the tradition of reading as a cornerstone of societal development is crucial, rather than relegating books to a secondary position.
Alphonse Tshibindi, the head of the library at the Nouveaux Horizons University of Lubumbashi, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the significance of nurturing a culture of reading across all strata of society. In a world in constant flux, books remain a linchpin for knowledge acquisition and critical thinking, with an irreplaceable role in shaping thought processes.
The Book and Bible Festival stands as an essential gathering for enthusiasts of literature, ideas, and knowledge. Through facilitating access to books, promoting reading, and celebrating the cultural wealth contained within them, the event contributes to a more educated, enlightened, and globally engaged society.
Félibi emerges as a hub for sharing, exploration, and dialogue, bringing together a community driven by a love for reading and intellectual inquisitiveness, guiding the way towards a future enriched by knowledge and mutual understanding.
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