The Challenges of Reading Culture among Students

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 89 views

Interest in Reading Students at the 4th High School Library (SMA) Medan: A Study on the Challenges and Recommendations

The 4th High School Library (SMA) Medan, located on Jalan Glass No.12, Sei Putih Tengah, Medan Petisah, is a hub for students to access knowledge and information. However, a study conducted on the interest in reading among students at this institution reveals a concerning trend. With a population of 1,638 students in 2017, this study aims to identify the level of interest in reading through descriptive methods. The samples taken amounted to 94 students, using the Slovin formula with a 10% error limit, as well as proportionate stratified random sampling techniques to determine respondents.

The Challenges of Reading Culture among Students

The results of this study reveal that the interest in reading of SMA Negeri 4 Medan students is still relatively low. This can be seen from the number of student visits to the minimal school library, where half of them only visited the library 1-2 times. This data indicates the lack of student motivation to read and explore the sources of information in the library. Most students also reveal that the lack of facilities and collection of books in the library reduces their comfort when reading.

Furthermore, there is dissatisfaction among students related to their reading experience. The average respondent felt less excited and quickly felt bored when reading a book. This contributes to a negative view of reading activities, even they tend to disagree with spending vacation time with reading activities. On the other hand, the lack of interest in reading also correlates with various factors such as the influence of technology, where digital entertainment is more attractive to students than reading books.

The Influence of Technology on Reading Habits

The widespread use of technology has significantly impacted the way students consume information. Digital entertainment, such as social media, video games, and online streaming services, has become a major distraction for students. Many students prefer to spend their free time engaging in these activities rather than reading books. This trend is concerning, as it may lead to a decline in reading habits and a lack of interest in literacy.

Analysis and Recommendations

The results of this study provide a clear picture of the importance of attention to interest in reading among students. Efforts to increase interest in reading can be done in several ways.

Improving Facilities and Collections in the Library

First, it is essential to improve facilities and collections in the library. Increase the number of books, especially those that suit students' interests, as well as creating a comfortable atmosphere can attract more students to visit. This can be achieved by:

Expanding the library's collection: Add more books, including fiction, non-fiction, and reference materials, to cater to students' diverse interests.
Creating a comfortable atmosphere: Ensure the library is well-maintained, with comfortable seating, adequate lighting, and a peaceful environment.
Providing access to digital resources: Offer online databases, e-books, and other digital resources to supplement traditional print materials.

Promoting Reading through Activities and Events

Second, reading promotional activities must be more encouraged. For example, by holding a reading competition, book discussion, or even inviting writers to share experiences can increase student interest in literacy. These activities will not only encourage students to read but can also build communities that care about education and literacy.

Organizing reading competitions: Host reading competitions to encourage students to read and engage with books.
Book discussions: Facilitate book discussions to foster a sense of community and encourage students to share their thoughts and opinions.
Author talks: Invite authors to share their experiences and insights, inspiring students to develop a love for reading.

Involving Educators and Parents in Promoting Reading Culture

Third, educators and parents must play an active role in instilling a culture of reading early on. By giving positive examples and inviting students to make reading as daily habits, it is hoped that students' reading interest can increase over time.

Modeling reading behavior: Educators and parents should model reading behavior by reading themselves and sharing their love for reading with students.
Encouraging daily reading habits: Encourage students to develop a daily reading habit, even if it's just for a short period.
Providing support and resources: Offer support and resources to students who struggle with reading, such as tutoring or additional reading materials.

Increasing the interest of reading students in SMA Negeri 4 Medan is not an easy task, but with the right approach and involvement of all parties, a strong reading culture can be formed. By improving facilities and collections in the library, promoting reading through activities and events, and involving educators and parents in promoting reading culture, we can inspire students to develop a love for reading and improve their literacy skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Interest in Reading Students at the 4th High School Library (SMA) Medan

Q: What is the main objective of this study?

A: The main objective of this study is to identify the level of interest in reading among students at the 4th High School Library (SMA) Medan.

Q: What methods were used to collect data for this study?

A: The data for this study was collected using descriptive methods, with a sample size of 94 students. The samples were taken using the Slovin formula with a 10% error limit, as well as proportionate stratified random sampling techniques.

Q: What are the main challenges faced by students in terms of reading culture?

A: The main challenges faced by students in terms of reading culture include:

Lack of motivation to read and explore sources of information in the library
Limited facilities and collection of books in the library
Dissatisfaction with reading experience
Influence of technology, where digital entertainment is more attractive to students than reading books

Q: What are some recommendations to increase interest in reading among students?

A: Some recommendations to increase interest in reading among students include:

Improving facilities and collections in the library
Promoting reading through activities and events
Involving educators and parents in promoting reading culture

Q: How can educators and parents promote reading culture among students?

A: Educators and parents can promote reading culture among students by:

Modeling reading behavior
Encouraging daily reading habits
Providing support and resources to students who struggle with reading

Q: What is the significance of this study?

A: This study is significant because it highlights the importance of attention to interest in reading among students. By understanding the challenges faced by students in terms of reading culture, educators and parents can develop strategies to promote reading and improve literacy skills.

Q: What are some potential solutions to address the challenges faced by students in terms of reading culture?

A: Some potential solutions to address the challenges faced by students in terms of reading culture include:

Expanding the library's collection to include more books and digital resources
Creating a comfortable atmosphere in the library
Organizing reading competitions and book discussions
Inviting authors to share their experiences and insights

Q: How can students develop a love for reading?

A: Students can develop a love for reading by:

Exposing themselves to a wide range of books and genres
Joining book clubs or reading groups
Discussing books with friends and family members
Setting aside dedicated time to read and relax