This article is an opinion piece by Mudianah Mahmud, S.IP., a librarian at UIN Jakarta, currently serving as the Coordinator of Collection Development at UIN Jakarta Library.

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Library Science, although often perceived merely as a field related to managing book collections, is in fact a much more complex and relevant discipline, especially in today's digital era. Essentially, library science is a branch of knowledge that studies how to manage, organize, store, and distribute information and knowledge for the benefit of society. Its focus is not only on physical books but also on how information can be accessed, disseminated, and used effectively by various groups.

As a librarian at UIN Jakarta, actively involved in library collection development, I see library science not just as a matter of managing book collections, but as a dynamic field facing the challenges of digitalization, serving as a guardian of more inclusive and democratic knowledge.

The Transformation of Library Science Throughout History
Initially, library science focused more on managing physical collections such as books, journals, and archives. Traditional libraries functioned as places to store and lend reading materials to the public. However, with technological advancements and the emergence of the digital era, library science has evolved far beyond this function.

Before the internet era, libraries were the only places that provided access to various needed information, whether for education, research, or entertainment. Nowadays, almost everyone can access information through their personal smartphones. This demands that library science adapts in managing data and information digitally, ensuring that users can find relevant and accurate information.

Library Transformation in the Digital Era
Libraries in the digital era can no longer function solely as physical storage spaces for collections. With digital technology, libraries must adopt systems that are more flexible and responsive to the ever-evolving needs of society. As a librarian directly involved in collection development at UIN Jakarta, I can say that the main challenge today is how to utilize technology to develop relevant collections and ensure that available information can be easily accessed by the academic community of UIN Jakarta.

At UIN Jakarta, we have integrated digitalization systems in library collection management. We not only provide physical books but also offer access to international scientific journals, research databases, and digital repositories that allow students, lecturers, and researchers to access knowledge from various disciplines. Library science acts as a bridge between information resources and users, ensuring that existing information can be accessed efficiently.

The UIN Jakarta Digital Library, named Touch & Go Mobile Library is the Digital Library application of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta for accessing various collections, journals, and other academic materials. It is available in two versions, the app store version and the windows version. Now, the academic community of UIN Jakarta can easily and freely access it anytime and anywhere.

Librarians as Information Professionals
Librarians, as practitioners of library science, play a crucial role in ensuring that the information in the library can be accessed, used, and understood easily. They are not just bookkeepers but also information experts who understand how to manage, organize, and disseminate knowledge efficiently.

With the advancement of technology, librarians now also need to master digital tools, from library management software to information retrieval technology based on artificial intelligence. Librarians must also actively participate in the development and maintenance of digital repositories and ensure that the information stored is accurate, relevant, and easily accessible.

In conclusion, library science is a dynamic and evolving field that goes beyond mere collection management. In this digital era, the role of library science and librarians is increasingly important in ensuring that information and knowledge can be accessed and utilized effectively by society. Therefore, it is essential for library science to continue adapting and innovating in facing the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements. *Mudianah Mahmud/RMr