From July 25 to July 27, 2024, a total of 15 librarians and 20 administrative library staff from Universitas Gadjah Mada conducted a three-day benchmarking visit to the National Library of Indonesia (PERPUSNAS RI) and Bina Nusantara University (BINUS) in Jakarta. The Biology Faculty Library represented by Mr. Harsono. This annual event by the UGM library aimed to enhance basic literacy skills among library staff and improve library services in line with UGM’s mission to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including library services to support educational sustainability.
The visit began on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Bina Nusantara University. The delegation was welcomed by the head of the library, Mrs. Hanny Juwitasary, SE., S.Kom., M.MSI., CDMP. As the Manager of the Central Library and Knowledge Center (LKC), she provided an overview of the library’s operations and its commitment to promoting literacy and knowledge sharing among students and the community. The participants discuss the importance of basic literacy skills in the digital era. Mrs. Hanny emphasized that libraries play a role in bridging literacy gaps and providing access to information. Librarians from Universitas Gadjah Mada shared their experiences and challenges in promoting literacy at their respective institutions.
On the second day, the delegation visited the National Library of Indonesia. The delegation was received by Mrs. Anes Nasrullah, S.Ant., MA., Head of the Working Group for Monograph and Rare Periodical Collections Services. She explained the library’s efforts in preserving Indonesia’s literary heritage and promoting literacy through various programs and initiatives. Mrs. Anes highlighted that the National Library serves not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a center for community engagement and education. The librarians were particularly interested in the library’s strategies for enhancing literacy skills.
The benchmarking visit also included discussions on the role of technology in promoting literacy. The librarians learned about innovative tools and platforms that can improve access to information and enhance user engagement. This knowledge is expected to empower them to develop more effective literacy programs. As the visit concluded on July 27, the participants expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and the wealth of knowledge shared during the study tour. They returned to Yogyakarta with renewed motivation to apply the insights gained. This visit is expected to significantly benefit the library in providing services to users by promoting basic literacy skills.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Universitas Gadjah Mada, Bina Nusantara University, and the National Library of Indonesia marks a significant step towards enhancing literacy and information access in Indonesia. The commitment of these institutions to fostering a culture of learning and knowledge sharing is crucial to achieving sustainable development in the country.