RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - By prioritizing community-specific needs over traditional procurement, the Jakarta Provincial Administration is redefining public libraries as inclusive social hubs tailored to the unique demands of its citizens.

As reported by Antara, this shift toward "needs-based" services is particularly focused on Child-Friendly Integrated Public Spaces (RPTRA). It aims to transform libraries from mere book repositories into active catalysts for local problem-solving and social progress.

Speaking at a seminar titled "Developing Thematic Collections Based on Needs" on Thursday, February 26, 2026, Head of the Jakarta Library and Archives Agency, Nasruddin Djoko Surjono, emphasized that a library's collection should reflect the community it serves.

"We want public libraries, including those in RPTRAs, to be socially present with relevant collections, contextual programs, inclusive services, and involved communities as partners," said Nasruddin.

He further noted that when collections are curated based on impact, the library becomes a "solution space" for the public. This evolution is already yielding measurable results.

A 2025 study by the Jakarta Library and Archives Agency and the University of Indonesia revealed that the city’s literacy culture index climbed to 78.76, a significant 6.67-point increase from the previous year. This growth was fueled by a dramatic surge in library visits, which jumped to 58.55 percent compared to 44.7 percent in 2024.

Additionally, the city’s Community Literacy Development Index (IPLM) maintained a high-tier score of 95.03. Meanwhile, the Reading Interest Level (TKM) reached 73.26, reflecting an improved ability among residents to comprehend and reflect on information.

As the Chairperson of the Indonesian Public Library Forum (FPUI), Nasruddin, highlighted that synergy with the National Library is essential to ensure local initiatives align with national policy. Looking ahead, he viewed the current season as an opportunity for institutional renewal.

"Ramadan is a moment for reflection and improvement. Let us make this holy month a starting point for the renewal of public library services throughout Indonesia, libraries that are adaptive, professional, and impactful," he remarked.

Moving forward, Jakarta plans to solidify these gains by strengthening data-driven literacy policies and expanding cross-sector collaborations to ensure the library remains a cornerstone of national literacy. ***