National Library distributes 4,000 books to Sekolah Rakyat in West Bandung Regency

Jakarta (ANTARA) — The National Library of Indonesia (Perpusnas) is distributing 4,000 books to Sekolah Rakyat in Bandung Barat as part of its commitment to strengthening national literacy. This concrete step not only strengthens the reading collections at primary (SD), junior high (SMP), and senior high (SMA) levels, but also represents a strategic investment in preparing a literate generation for Indonesia Emas 2045. The distribution comprises 1,500 for SD, 1,500 for SMP, and 1,000 for SMA. ‘Our target is for this figure to rise by at least 10 percent each year so that the collection remains up to date,’ said Perpusnas head E. Aminudin Aziz in an official statement in Jakarta on Wednesday. In addition to providing the collection, Perpusnas will also offer technical guidance in library management. Senior librarians and creative staff will be involved to optimise the use of books through activities such as shared reading, reflective discussions, rewriting the contents of readings, and book-based creative projects such as simple performances. ‘Sekolah Rakyat is not only about changing social status; it is about preparing future leaders. Leaders today are not born, but prepared,’ he said. Through synergy with the Ministry of Social Affairs, local governments, and other stakeholders, Perpusnas is optimistic that Sekolah Rakyat can become a model for strengthening national literacy. Meanwhile, West Java Provincial Secretary Herman Suryatman regards libraries as a crucial foundation in shaping students’ character and competencies. ‘Perpusnas’ support is a long-term investment to produce an outstanding generation ready to face global challenges. Perpusnas also serves as the forum for the birth of a generation cageur, bageur, bener, pinter, singer, alias sehat, baik, benar, cerdas, dan terampil,’ he said.