Libraries Without Borders (LWB) thinks so and have unveiled a petition, The Urgency of Reading, to address the need.
Over 100 leading figures, most from the world of books, have already signed on.
strong belief that books, writing, and learning should not be denied to victims of humanitarian disasters, Libraries Without Borders, through this call to action, seeks to increase awareness about the need for access to information and books in post-disaster situations. Furthermore, LWB calls on international organizations to 1) expand reading, cultural and educational programs, which activate the human spirit and help individuals cope with trauma; and 2) make the provision of access to information and books a priority for international humanitarian relief.
Hard not to support this one.
Press release with names of first signatories.
Guardian: Disaster victims ‘need books as well as food’
CSMonitor: Should books be a part of emergency relief efforts? –