[Unpad.ac.id, 30/11/2012] Books are windows to knowledge. Libraries where books are kept should become the most representative place for the society in general to gain knowledge. Rigidly formal services that a library often offers have made the society lose interest in libraries.
“Libraries set too many rules, too serious,” said Agus Munawar, founder of Community Reading Ground, Soreang Book Corner when speaking at Sharing Taman Bacaan, a part of a series of events in Indonesian Library Science and Informatic Student Gathering, on Friday afternoon in Oemi Abdurachman Hall in Jatinangor.
Munawar, who has been engaging with the society through his reading ground for more than 12 years, argues that it is about the time libraries in Indonesia give excellent service and comfortable environment for the community members to read. “We should start thinking how to bring books close to the society and make the society feel less awkward when going to the library,” said he.
Munawar’s reading ground in Soreang has now become inseparable from the society. Several activities are regularly held such as reading tour service, storytelling, painting, and traditional games.
The society’s interest in his reading ground grew from Munawar’s enthusiasm and strong commitment.
“Good personality, passion, creativity, orientation, and commitment will lead to a reading ground that will play a good role and offer the society with solutions,” concluded he.
