Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Library of Indonesia (Perpusnas) has initiated a human library program to ensure libraries continue to remain relevant in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing that human roles cannot be replaced by technology.

“We are currently exploring the development of a human library at Perpusnas,” National Library head E. Aminudin Aziz said at the commemoration of National Librarian Day here on Monday.

“This concept is still being formulated, but by 2050, even in a world dominated by technology, humans will remain irreplaceable by AI,” he informed adding, his side is currently working on the concept and expects to launch it soon.

The initiative is part of efforts to improve Indonesia’s national literacy index, which remains relatively low.

However, the 2024 National Literacy Development Index (IPLM) recorded a significant achievement with a score of 73.52, exceeding the target of 71.4 and improving on the 2023 score of 69.42.

“Recently, some data shows that our literacy development is still unsatisfactory. Therefore, libraries can be a shared platform to enhance and develop literacy skills,” Aziz said.

He added that the National Library is also collaborating with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions to activate libraries in schools, community literacy parks, and libraries at houses of worship.

“This year, we are supporting 10 thousand reading points. Last year, we also facilitated 10 thousand reading spots. Toward the end of this year, we will add around 563 libraries in correctional facilities and 500 in local health centers,” he said.

He stressed that these steps are part of Perpusnas’ commitment to enhancing people’s literacy skills, emphasizing that the right to read and access reading materials belongs to everyone.

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Translator: Lintang, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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