According to the minister, libraries, especially the National Library (Perpusnas), should not be limited to places for reading and discussing books but should also evolve into enjoyable destinations for people from all walks of life.
“Libraries must be places not only for reading and engaging in discussions but also serve as centers for recreation,” Mu'ti stated during a talk show titled “Strengthening the Identity and Role of Librarians through the Establishment of July 7 as Indonesian Librarian Day” here on Monday.
The minister also commended the National Library’s initiative to operate mobile libraries during Car Free Day (CFD) events, enabling the public to combine exercise and access to light and entertaining reading materials in open spaces.
He further applauded the National Library for expanding access to reading materials by digitizing various official publications into electronic formats (PDF), which can be borrowed and read online without needing to visit the library in person.
To support this vision, Mu'ti encouraged librarians to act as “walking libraries” within their communities, helping to foster and boost public interest in literacy.
He emphasized that librarians should no longer be viewed solely as book managers or information facilitators but also as archivists of the stories of individuals and inspiring national figures.
“I agree that librarians must always be present, and in my opinion, they should not only master the library’s book collections but also become a 'walking library' themselves,” Minister Mu'ti noted.
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Translator: Hana, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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