Efforts in Improving Cooperation Among National Libraries: The Indonesian Experience

Introduction

Cooperation among national libraries plays a crucial role in strengthening global knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and library development. Indonesia provides a strong example of how a developing country has worked to build a national library system while actively participating in international collaboration.

The evolution of the National Library of Indonesia reflects decades of progress—from colonial-era collections to a modern national information hub integrated with global library networks.

Introduction
Historical Background of Library Cooperation in Indonesia
Development of the National Information Infrastructure
Role of the National Library of Indonesia
Resource Sharing and Legal Deposit Practices
Library Services and National Information Access
Institutional Cooperation and International Partnerships
The NATIS Concept and Its Relevance
Challenges Facing National Libraries
Conclusion

1. Historical Background of Library Cooperation in Indonesia

International library cooperation in Indonesia dates back to the 19th century, when the Batavia Society for Arts and Sciences began exchanging publications with European universities. These early exchanges mainly included scientific journals and research reports produced during the Dutch colonial period.

However, this collaboration declined during World War II and remained inactive until the establishment of the National Library of Indonesia in 1980, which revived and expanded international exchange programs.

2. Development of the National Information Infrastructure

Indonesia’s library and information system has developed as part of a broader national infrastructure that includes:

Libraries
Documentation centers
Archives

While these institutions are spread across the country, their development levels vary significantly.

Key highlights include:

University libraries: More advanced and supported by international programs such as World Bank initiatives
School libraries: Still developing with limited resources
Documentation centers: Growing rapidly in fields like agriculture, law, technology, and health
National Archives: Well-established with historical roots dating back to the colonial era

This diverse system forms the foundation of Indonesia’s national knowledge network.

3. Role of the National Library of Indonesia

Established in 1980, the National Library of Indonesia (NLI) plays a central role in unifying library systems and improving access to information.

Key responsibilities include:

Preserving rare historical collections
Integrating dispersed library materials
Strengthening cataloging and classification standards
Supporting national and international information exchange

A major milestone was the integration of the Center for Library Development into the National Library, granting it greater autonomy in policy-making.

4. Resource Sharing and Legal Deposit Practices

Although Indonesia initially lacked a formal legal deposit law, cooperation with publishers helped ensure that published materials were regularly submitted to the National Library.

Resource-sharing initiatives include:

National bibliographies and indexes
Subject catalogs and abstracts
International exchange of publications
Cooperation with embassies for foreign material donations

These initiatives strengthen both national access and global visibility of Indonesian publications.

5. Library Services and National Information Access

The National Library of Indonesia provides a wide range of services, including:

Reference and advisory services
Reading and research facilities
Technical processing and cataloging
Distribution of bibliographic publications

Specialized centers were also created for:

Bibliographic standards and communication
Library manpower training
Information and reference services
Preservation and conservation of materials

These services aim to support both local researchers and international users.

6. Institutional Cooperation and International Partnerships

Indonesia actively collaborates with global library institutions through:

Seminars and workshops on automation and ISBN systems
Training programs with ASEAN countries
Joint discussions with European and Asian national libraries
Preservation and conservation workshops with global experts

Regular exchange programs with national libraries worldwide help strengthen professional ties and improve resource sharing.

7. The NATIS Concept and Its Relevance

The NATIS (National Information System) concept introduced by UNESCO in 1974 emphasizes the integration of:

Libraries
Documentation centers
Archives

According to NATIS principles, an effective national information system requires:

Strong coordination among institutions
National legislation and policy support
Skilled manpower
Use of modern information technology

Indonesia continues to implement NATIS principles, although coordination challenges remain.

8. Challenges Facing National Libraries

Despite progress, national libraries—especially in developing countries—face several challenges:

Rapid technological change
Need for skilled library professionals
Uneven development of library systems
Lack of centralized coordination
Limited automation infrastructure

National libraries must adapt quickly or risk being bypassed by more modern information institutions.

9. Conclusion

The Indonesian experience demonstrates that cooperation among national libraries is essential for building strong information systems. Through resource sharing, international collaboration, and gradual adoption of modern technologies, Indonesia has made significant progress in strengthening its national library infrastructure.

However, long-term success depends on:

Strong national coordination
Continued international partnerships
Investment in technology and training
Unified national information policies

The future of national libraries lies in their ability to evolve from traditional repositories into dynamic global information hubs.

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