South Sulawesi Strengthens Library Services to Boost Literacy

RRI.CO.ID, Makassar – The South Sulawesi Provincial Administration, through the Library and Archives Agency, continues to enhance library services in an effort to improve public literacy, particularly among the younger generation. This initiative serves as a foundation for developing competitive human resources.

The Acting Head of the South Sulawesi Library and Archives Agency, Muhammad Jufri, provided a statement in Makassar on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. He noted that the service strengthening includes facility upgrades, expanding reading collections, and improving public accessibility.

He explained that there are currently two primary service points, which are the library on Jalan Sultan Alauddin, Makassar, and the Maternal and Child Library on Jalan Lanto Daeng Pasewang, Makassar. Additionally, services are available at the Abdul Rasyid Dg. Lurang Library on Jalan Malino, Gowa Regency, further supported by mobile library units.

"We are continuously encouraging an increase in public interest in reading. Literacy is a vital aspect of improving the quality of human resources. Therefore, a culture of reading must be reinforced," he said, as quoted by Antara.

Jufri further explained that the South Sulawesi Provincial Administration aims to provide inclusive and user-friendly library services for all age groups, including children. The establishment of the Maternal and Child Library is important to instill a literacy culture from an early age.

Beyond offering children's book collections, the facility is equipped with educational play areas. This approach is expected to create an enjoyable learning environment while building a connection between children and books from a young age.

This integrated model of education and recreation is considered effective in attracting children's interest in reading amidst the dominance of digital devices.

"This library is specifically designed for mothers and children. Parents can utilize this facility to introduce their children to books and foster a love for reading early on," he explained.

He added that making library visits a habit from childhood is key to shaping a lifelong reading character. "For children, even if they cannot fully read yet, regular visits to the library will cultivate an appreciation for books. This is an excellent habit-forming process when started at a young age," he added.

Echoing this sentiment, the Provincial Secretary of South Sulawesi, Jufri Rahman, emphasized the importance of literacy as essential preparation for facing the future. ***