Innovation doesn’t always emerge from major research laboratories. Sometimes, small ideas born from everyday routines in the library can lead to significant change. This is the spirit upheld by Lilik Kurniawati Uswah, S.E., M.Si., Head of the Academic Library Innovation Award (ALIA) team from the Library and Archives of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), as she shared her experience in the MORNING (Monthly Learning) program held by the Forum Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi Indonesia (FPPTI) DIY on Tuesday (November 4) via Zoom.
Under the theme “Best Library Innovation 2025: Inspiration, Collaboration, and Transformation,” Lilik recounted her team’s journey to achieving 3rd Place at the National Level in the ALIA 2025 competition. The event, organized by FPPTI, serves as a platform to appreciate academic libraries that demonstrate innovation in services, management, and the use of technology, including artificial intelligence.
Lilik explained that the innovation presented by the UGM Library and Archives was titled “Integration of Artificial Intelligence in the Transformation of the UGM Library and Archives,” with its main product being “Siniar Pustaka-Kintaka.” Through this podcast, the library aims to respond to changing patterns of information consumption among younger generations while building an image of the library as a modern, creative, and inclusive space.
“This podcast was developed as a bridge between the library and the digital community. We wanted to show that libraries and archives can engage audiences in a fun way without losing their educational essence,” said Lilik.
The journey toward ALIA 2025 was not without challenges. The team had to formulate a well-founded concept, gather supporting data, and balance preparations with daily service duties. However, teamwork became the key to success. “We learned that collaboration is not only about sharing tasks but about sharing enthusiasm and trust,” Lilik explained.
Through this competition, the UGM ALIA team gained not only recognition but also valuable experience to strengthen their library innovation roadmap. Their next steps include improving impact documentation, enhancing content quality, and securing institutional support for ongoing digital innovation.
During the session, Lilik also delivered an inspiring message to fellow librarians across Indonesia. “Never underestimate small ideas that come from our daily routines. From something simple, we can create innovations that make a meaningful impact for users,” she said.
The MORNING program also featured Teguh Prasetyo Utomo, S.I.Pust. from Universitas Islam Indonesia and the ALIA team from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) as guest speakers, with Salwa Merta Althifannida, S.IP. from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan serving as moderator.
The event served as a collaborative forum to exchange best practices in library management. Beyond strengthening inter-university networks, it also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
With a growing spirit of innovation and collaboration, librarians are expected to become catalysts of change in navigating the digital era. As Lilik emphasized, “A library is no longer just a place to store knowledge—it is a living space for ideas, creativity, and collaboration.”
Contributor: Wasilatul Baroroh