Today marks World Book Day, annually celebrated on April 23.

The campaign seeks to recognise and promote the benefits of reading books, publishing and copyright.

Last month, South Africa's Sports, Arts, and Culture Ministry announced that government has reserved $98 million to equip existing libraries with better resources and build 26 new ones.

Alef Meulenberg of the non-profit organisation Afrika Tikkun, says ensuring that the country has more and better libraries is essential.

In an interview with Channel Africa’s Lulu Gaboo this morning, Meulenberg explained the benefits of reading, and said he hopes governments plan translates into action. Listen…