“This is a strong signal that library and librarian-related issues deserve serious attention. Libraries must not merely exist without meaning. They must become spaces for innovation, creativity, and the development of knowledge,” he said in an official statement here on Thursday.
Speaking at the 16th Congress of the Indonesian Librarians Association (IPI) and the 2025 National Scientific Seminar in Batam, Riau Islands, on Wednesday (September 17), he highlighted growing public interest in libraries.
He mentioned a recent national media focus on the state of libraries and librarians, including upcoming television features on the topic.
Rejecting the outdated stigma often associated with librarians, he called for a redefinition of both libraries and librarians. Libraries, he said, should serve as hubs of knowledge, curiosity, and creativity.
“Often, librarians are seen as passive, merely waiting for visitors or even being placed in school libraries 'as a form of punishment'. However, librarians are heirs to civilization’s knowledge and facilitators of the future. They are not lacking in creativity, they are scientists and professionals with a noble mission,” he asserted.
He also urged IPI to maintain professionalism and independence within its members, ensuring librarians are equipped with strong competencies and organizational independence.
IPI Chairperson T. Syamsul Bahri underscored the significance of this moment for rethinking the futures of librarians, noting that AI brings both opportunities and challenges to the profession.
Meanwhile, Riau Islands Governor Ansar Ahmad linked the event to the region’s long literary heritage, including the legacy of Raja Ali Haji in shaping the Malay language, the root of Bahasa Indonesia.
Related news: Perpusnas highlights need for library transformation amid AI era
Related news: Indonesia joins World Library Congress to spur knowledge diplomacy
Translator: Hreeloita, Kenzu
Editor: Arie Novarina
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
