Great ideas often begin with a conversation. When two institutions come together to exchange experiences, they often discover new ways to complement one another. That spirit was evident when the UGM Library and Archives welcomed a delegation from the Library and Archives Center of Universitas Terbuka (UT) on Monday (August 3) at the Archives Meeting Room, L7 Building, UGM Library and Archives. The visit marked an initial step toward exploring collaboration in library development, archives management, and information technology.
The delegation was led by Kani, S.Kom., M.Kom., Manager of Library Services at the Library and Archives Center of Universitas Terbuka, accompanied by three staff members. The visit was part of Universitas Terbuka’s efforts to enhance the quality of its library and archival services while expanding collaborative networks with other higher education institutions.
Opening the meeting, Kani expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the UGM Library and Archives. He emphasized that the visit was intended to lay the foundation for broader collaboration between the two institutions.
“We hope to explore opportunities for collaboration with the UGM Library and Archives, including in the field of information technology. We believe there are many areas where we can learn from one another and develop initiatives together that will strengthen both institutions,” said Kani.
Responding to the proposal, Arif Surachman, S.I.P., M.B.A., Director of the UGM Library and Archives, welcomed the initiative. He noted that institutional partnerships become more meaningful when they are built on mutual learning and the exchange of expertise.
“Collaboration can begin with practical initiatives, such as sharing access to and utilization of electronic resources. At the same time, we are also interested in learning from Universitas Terbuka, particularly its well-established practices in managing undergraduate and graduate theses,” Arif explained.
The knowledge-sharing session began with a presentation by Wahyu Supriyanto, S.E., M.Si., Head of the Library Division at the UGM Library and Archives, who introduced the institution’s profile. His presentation highlighted the history of the UGM Library and Archives, its flagship services, collections, facilities, and various innovations developed to support education, research, and community engagement.
The presentation served as a springboard for an engaging discussion. Representatives from both institutions exchanged insights on library and archives management, information system development, digital services, institutional repositories, and potential areas for future collaboration. The discussion fostered an open and dynamic atmosphere, allowing participants to share best practices while addressing common challenges and discussing solutions implemented within their respective institutions.
During the discussion session, Yulistiarini Kumaraningsum, S.P., M.M., Head of the Data and Information Systems Division at the UGM Library and Archives, presented the institution’s information technology initiatives. She introduced a range of digital systems and services that support library management, improve access to information, and enhance services for the academic community. Her presentation sparked further discussion on how information technology can drive innovation in library services and strengthen collaboration between the two institutions.
Visits such as this provide valuable opportunities for continuous learning. Every institution has its own strengths, and when those strengths are shared, they create new ideas and opportunities to improve library services for users.
This collaborative spirit reflects the UGM Library and Archives’ commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by enhancing access to quality information and learning services, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening institutional networks and fostering collaborative innovation.
Although the meeting lasted only a few hours, the conversations it inspired may lead to lasting partnerships. After all, when libraries choose to learn from one another and share their knowledge, the benefits extend far beyond the institutions themselves—they ultimately enrich the entire academic community.
Contributor: Wasilatul Baroroh