The Library and Archives of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) received a benchmarking visit from the Graduate School of UIN Kiai Ageng Muhammad Besari Ponorogo on Friday, 21 November 2025, to discuss the management of theses and dissertations as well as various strategies to increase library visits as part of efforts to strengthen SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The delegation was led by Dr. H. Kardi, S.Ag., M.Hum., Head of the Library Unit, accompanied by seven other participants consisting of lecturers, librarians, and administrative staff of the Graduate School. They were welcomed by Wahyu Supriyanto, S.E., M.Si. (Head of the Library Division), Yulistiarini Kumaraningrum, S.P., M.M. (Head of the Data and Information System Division), and Sarwono, S.IP., M.A. (UGM Librarian).
In his remarks, Wahyu Supriyanto provided an overview of the services and developments of the UGM Library and Archives, including its integrated library system, management of print and digital collections, access to various academic information platforms, and the provision of learning facilities that support academic activities. “We continue to strengthen our services so that the library becomes an accessible, relevant learning space capable of meeting the needs of the academic community,” he stated.
Yulistiarini Kumaraningrum explained the workflow for managing academic works, starting from self-upload, document verification, originality checking, to storage in the integrated institutional repository. This system also strengthens the implementation of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, particularly through the enhancement of digital infrastructure in higher education.
In addition, the UGM Library and Archives team presented strategies to increase library visits by providing services that respond to user needs. These innovations include comfortable learning spaces such as TGCL (The Gade Creative Lounge), the Library Clinic consultation service, and regular information literacy mini classes designed to improve academic literacy skills.
Sarwono emphasized the importance of building a human-centered learning environment. “When students feel comfortable, they become more productive and more engaged in the academic process. That is the environment we cultivate at UGM,” he said.
After the discussion session, the delegation was invited to visit several service areas, including TGCL, the ETD Room, and Lawang Sajarah. The participants expressed enthusiasm, particularly regarding the implementation of integrated service systems and spatial designs that facilitate academic interaction.

This visit served as an important momentum to strengthen inter-university collaboration, in line with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. With this spirit of partnership, both institutions are committed to expanding cooperation in knowledge management, information literacy, and educational access enhancement as a concrete contribution to achieving sustainable development goals in Indonesia.
Contributor: Wasilatul Baroroh