The Central Jamaican Reading Council has announced the establishment of a reading area in the waiting room of the Mandeville Hospital, as part of activities that marked International Literacy Day on September 8. As part the activities, books donated by the Jamaica Aluminium Company (JAMALCo) were distributed to mothers in the maternity ward as well as to children within the hospital. The Council, which works in close collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture, is said to be instrumental in establishing reading resources throughout the nation, including professional resource centres for teachers. Former Education Officer with the Ministry, and President of the Council, Dr.V. Elaine Carter, has commented that 'reading is everybody’s business and beginning at the earliest age, children should be introduced the practice.' She also highlighted the importance of children viewing adults reading. Carter, who also works with UNESCO, has insisted that teachers keep abreast of teaching trends that are culturally appropriate, and more in-line with current thinking.