Agus Rifai, Ph.D., Librarian - Head of Library at Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University (UIN) Jakarta
In commemoration of 'Indonesian Librarian Day 2025', this paper reviews the strategic role of librarians as the frontline in maintaining and transforming libraries in the Digital Age.

---
July 7, 2025 became a milestone for Indonesia's literacy world. Through the Decree of the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Number 81/M/20251, the government established the date as Indonesian Librarian Day. This designation is not just a ceremony, but a recognition of the strategic role of librarians in shaping the nation's civilization through knowledge management.

In the midst of rapid digitalization, librarians are no longer just bookshelf keepers. They are information navigators, knowledge curators and digital literacy educators. Libraries are now transformed into lifelong learning spaces, where people hone their creativity and broaden their horizons. Librarians are at the forefront of ensuring inclusive, accurate and ethical access to information.

However, the challenges of the digital age are not light. Misinformation, hoaxes and data flooding are real threats. This is where librarians play a vital role: filtering information, educating the public about media literacy, and developing technology-based knowledge management systems. They are not only stewards of information, but also guardians of the nation's intellectual integrity.

The establishment of Indonesian Librarian Day is also a reflective moment: have we given enough space and support to this profession? Have our libraries become vibrant and relevant learning centers? Have our librarians been equipped with adequate digital competencies?

Going forward, strengthening the role of librarians should be a common agenda. The government, academics and the community need to synergize in building a healthy literacy ecosystem. Investment in libraries and librarians is an investment in the future of the nation.

Happy Indonesian Librarian Day. Thank you for keeping the flame of knowledge alive amidst the waves of the times. *AR

For news updates and further information, please access:

🌐 Website: https://perpus.uinjkt.ac.id/id
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perpusuinjkt/
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pusatperpustakaan5231
FB: https://www.facebook.com/pusatperpustakaanuinjkt
X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fperpusuinjkt