The Unissula Library and Publishing Institute served as one of the destinations for the Heritage Tour held in conjunction with the 2026 National Working Meeting (Rakernas) of the Indonesian Librarians Association (IPI). The visit took place at the Unissula Library on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
Participants included librarians and library managers from 45 institutions across various regions of Indonesia. Attendees included the Principal Secretary of the National Library of the Republic of Indonesia—who also serves as the General Chairperson of the IPI Central Board—Dr. Joko Santoso, M.Hum. Also present were the Chairperson of the IPI Central Java Regional Board, Itmamuddin, S.S., M.I.P., and the Chairperson of the IPI Semarang City Chapter, Aan Prabowo, S.H., M.A. They were welcomed by Unissula’s Vice Rector I, Dr. Mochamad Abdul Basir, S.Pd., M.Pd., and the Head of the Unissula Library and Publishing Institute, Erna Sunarti, S.Pd., M.Hum., CPS.
The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the strengths of Unissula’s library services. Furthermore, the event strengthened networks and collaboration among libraries across Indonesia.
During the event, Joko Santoso highlighted the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. He stated that libraries must continue to innovate to keep pace with changing times. Librarians also need to enhance their competencies to provide services that meet the community's needs.
He emphasized that technological advancements should be viewed as opportunities for libraries. Service innovation must be continuously developed to ensure libraries remain relevant. These efforts must be supported by improvements in institutional quality and librarian competence.
Additionally, he underscored the importance of library accreditation and librarian certification, noting that both are integral to improving service quality. Libraries also need to strengthen their collections regarding the Indonesian archipelago (*Nusantara*) and local distinctiveness as part of the nation's cultural identity. On that occasion, Joko Santoso also emphasized the importance of Unissula’s preparations to host the 19th KPDI (Indonesian Library and Documentation Conference) in 2028. He stressed that these preparations must be thorough and well-planned. The event is expected to contribute significantly to library development at the national level.
The program continued with a presentation on the profile of Unissula’s Library and Publishing Institute (LPP) by Erna Sunarti. The presentation covered the institution's profile, library services, collection development, human resources, service innovations, and publishing functions.
Participants were then invited to tour several library facilities. One highlight was the Sultan Agung Corner, which showcases the history of Sultan Agung and the Sultan Agung Waqf Foundation. Participants also visited the literacy garden, a space where students can read, engage in discussions, and conduct academic activities.
Through the Heritage Tour held during the 2026 IPI National Working Meeting, Unissula’s LPP reaffirmed its commitment to developing the library as a hub for knowledge, literacy, and innovation. This visit served as a platform for sharing best practices and strengthening inter-library collaboration. With its diverse facilities and ongoing service enhancements, Unissula continues to strive to contribute to the advancement of literacy and libraries in Indonesia.
