ISLAMABAD, May 27: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) on Friday announced to establish six public libraries in various sectors of Islamabad. The libraries will be set up at central points of G-9, G-11, F-11, F-8/2 and I-8/3 sectors for which the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has earmarked plots.

The first library will be ready for public use within two years in I-8/3. The decision to this effect has been taken after a number of local civil society organizations demanded the facility.

Every now and then, the educationists have highlighted the increasingly dying habit of reading in the society with special focus on youth.

They were of the view that virtual absence of public libraries in the capital city had led to this worrisome situation, which otherwise constituted an important part of the city life.

According to plan, the libraries will offer books, periodicals, newspapers, magazines, audio and visual material etc. These will also house a collection of government publications, periodicals and audiovisual materials.