The Library and Archives of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a visit from SMA IT Iqra’ Kota Bengkulu on Thursday, October 8. The visit, attended by approximately 80 students, provided an opportunity for the students to learn more about academic libraries, including the facilities, services, and activities available at the UGM Library and Archives.
Held in the Seminar Room on the second floor of the UGM Library and Archives, the group from SMA IT Iqra’ Kota Bengkulu was welcomed by Safirotu Khoir, Ph.D., Coordinator of Public Relations and International Affairs at the UGM Library and Archives, along with the Public Relations team. The program continued with an introduction to the UGM Library and Archives delivered by Wasilatul Baroroh, a member of the Public Relations team.
During the presentation, the students were introduced to the library’s role as a center for information and knowledge resources. They also learned about the various activities they can engage in at the library, including reading, searching for and accessing information, studying independently, and using the available facilities to support their learning.
To provide a more interactive experience, the students then participated in a virtual tour of the UGM Library and Archives. Through the tour, they gained an overview of the library’s environment and facilities. The group then continued with an in-person library tour, where they explored various spaces and facilities while learning about their functions and how they can be utilized.
The program was facilitated by Aji Bagus Rio Pamungkas, a part-time student worker at the UGM Library and Archives. Throughout the visit, the participants enthusiastically took part in each activity. The visit also gave the students an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a university library firsthand and to see how a library can serve as a space for learning, information-seeking, and knowledge development.
The visit by SMA IT Iqra’ Kota Bengkulu also contributed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by introducing young people to information resources and learning facilities. The activity also supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering connections between secondary and higher education institutions.
Through educational visits such as this, the UGM Library and Archives continues to strengthen its role as an open space for knowledge and learning. Introducing students to libraries from an early stage is expected to encourage greater engagement with literacy and motivate them to make libraries part of their learning and personal development.
Contributor: Afifah Khasanah