The Library and Archives of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a comparative study visit from the University of Surabaya (UBAYA) on Monday (4/8/2025). The meeting, which took place from 09:00 to 11:30 WIB in the Meeting Room of the UGM Library and Archives, served as a forum for sharing experiences on the library’s development journey from its inception to the current digital era, while strengthening synergy among higher education institutions.
In his opening remarks, the Head of UGM Library and Archives, Arif Surachman, S.I.P., M.B.A., outlined the lengthy process UGM underwent to build an integrated and adaptive library ecosystem. “The development of the library and archives at UGM from the beginning to today’s modern stage is the fruit of sustainable commitment. We continuously strive to build a relevant service foundation so that the library can keep growing into an inclusive and responsive learning space for the academic community,” said Arif.
Furthermore, Head of the Library Division at UGM, Wahyu Supriyanto, S.E., M.Si., emphasized the importance of governance and collaboration among library institutions. “Through this collaboration, we can inspire each other in terms of collection management, data integration, and strategies to bring the library closer to its users,” Wahyu explained.
The interactive discussion session grew even more engaging when representatives from UBAYA asked about the effectiveness of face-to-face assistance services in the era of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.). They inquired whether programs such as mini classes or library clinics at UGM are still in high demand among patrons amid the widespread use of A.I. platforms like ChatGPT.
Answering the question, Coordinator of Public Relations and International Affairs at UGM Library and Archives, Safirotu Khoir, Ph.D., affirmed that patron enthusiasm for these mentoring programs remains high. “Although the presence of A.I. like ChatGPT offers quick access to information, user interest in coming to attend mini classes or library clinics remains very high. This is because the sensation of direct human interaction (human touch) and personal guidance provides understanding and empathy that artificial intelligence cannot replace,” Safirotu revealed.
This comparative study visit between the UGM Library and Archives and the University of Surabaya (UBAYA) aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by strengthening the capacity of academic libraries to provide information services, information literacy programs, and academic support that are responsive to technological advancements. The initiative also supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration among higher education institutions through the exchange of best practices, service innovations, and professional networks, thereby contributing to the development of inclusive, sustainable, and user-centered academic libraries in the digital era.
Contributor: Zulfanisa Nur Isnaini