Adapted from an original article in the Connector 2022
In spring 2022, the University of Michigan Library opened the Oka Tadoku Room, a unique library space inspired by Japanese aesthetics and committed to the practice of tadoku, or "extensive reading." This method, which gained traction in Japanese language instruction in the early 2000s, encourages learners to immerse themselves in a wide range of texts—such as mangas, essays, and novels—without the pressure of looking up every unfamiliar word. As Mayumi Oka, the retired head of the University's Japanese Language Program, explains, “The keyword ‘connection’ was always at the forefront of my mind as I planned the room, and by that I mean not only connections with the U-M campus community but with the broader community as well.”
The Oka Tadoku Room and internship were made possible through the generosity of Mayumi and her husband, Masao, who envisioned a space that would foster language mastery and cultural appreciation. Its establishment marks a significant expansion of the Asia Library's role, traditionally focused on specialized academic materials for faculty and graduate students. The inclusion of tadoku materials aims to engage undergraduates and inspire them to explore the library's offerings earlier in their academic journey.
Moreover, the room isn't limited to Japanese language learners. Recognizing the interest from Chinese and Korean programs, the space also houses materials in these languages. It serves as a venue for language classes and student gatherings, further supporting a multicultural and connected campus community.
As awareness about the Oka Tadoku Room grows, it promises to become an integral part of the university's mission to connect cultures and provide a welcoming space for language learners at all levels.