REGISTRATION for the much-anticipated Jamaica Library Service (JLS) National Reading Competition 2021, which is being held under the theme ‘Stay Connected and Read’, is officially open.

Persons interested are encouraged to register online at www.jls.gov.jm/nrc.

Though this year’s competition will be executed a bit differently due to the coronavirus pandemic, it promises to be an exciting, engaging event.

According to Director General Maureen Thompson, “the Jamaica Library Service is pleased to host the National Reading Competition, which is not only a signature event for the organisation, but a wholesome programme for all members of the family to participate in and enjoy”.

The competition, which began with a virtual launch on April 8, will continue over a five-month period, culminating in August, and will see participants from all 14 parishes competing in five age groups, namely: 6-8, 9-11, 12-14, 15- 20 and 21 and over.

The preliminary round of the competition will be held at participating branch libraries, from which winners will be selected to advance to the parish level. At this level, participants from each of the five age groups are then selected as parish champions based on their comprehension skills and knowledge of select literature including poetry from 2021 Poet Laureate of Jamaica, Olive Senior.

“This competition was developed with objectives to encourage the reading habit, cultivate an appreciation of all genres of literature, develop reading comprehension skills and foster continuing education in adults, and we are very proud that for the past 33 years we have been able to host it every year,” Thompson stated.

The final stage of the competition, which is the National Quiz Finals, will see five national champions emerge.

Members of the public are encouraged to contact their nearest public library for additional information or visit the Jamaica Library Service website or social media pages.

Registration for the National Reading Competition closes on Friday, May 14, 2021.