7th Sarawak Annual Librarians Colloquium 2023
(SAL.co 2023) - Online

12-13 September 2023

“ Mainstreaming the Library and Information Services ”

Background

The problem of dwindling usage of libraries and library membership is a significant concern in many communities worldwide. Libraries have traditionally served as important centres for knowledge, education, and community engagement, but in recent years, they have faced challenges in maintaining their relevance and attracting users. The public libraries in Malaysia are among the libraries that bear the full brunt of this disturbing issue.
Among the factors that contribute to this problem are:

  1. Digitalization and Online Resources: The rise of the internet and digital technologies has changed the way people access information and resources. With the ease of accessing information online, many individuals prefer to use search engines, e-books, online databases, and other digital resources rather than visiting physical libraries.
  2. E-books and Digital Reading: The popularity of e-books and digital reading devices has increased, providing readers with instant access to a vast array of books without the need to visit a physical library.
  3. Budget Cuts: Libraries often face budget cuts, resulting in reduced operating hours, limited resources, and a diminished ability to offer programs and services that attract users.
  4. Technological Barriers: Some individuals, especially older or less technologically inclined demographics, may face challenges in navigating digital resources, making them less likely to engage with libraries' online offerings.
  5. Lack of Awareness: In some communities, there might be a lack of awareness about the services and resources offered by libraries, leading to underutilization.
  6. Competition from Other Entertainment Options: People now have numerous entertainment options, such as streaming services, video games, and social media, which can divert their attention from visiting a library.

Main Objective

The main objective of this colloquium is to discuss, exchange ideas and share experiences on the methods and approaches in tackling the issue of dwindling usage of library and library membership in Malaysia.

Theme

Mainstreaming the Library and Information Services

Mainstreaming library and information services is a dynamic process that integrates these invaluable resources seamlessly into diverse community facets. By transcending physical spaces and embracing digital realms, libraries become epicentres of knowledge accessible to all. This evolution ensures equitable access to information, empowering individuals with lifelong learning tools. Mainstreaming also fosters partnerships, collaborating with schools, businesses, and cultural institutions, amplifying their impact. As society's informational landscape evolves, libraries adapt, offering innovative services such as digital literacy programs, media creation spaces, and virtual reference assistance. Mainstreaming propels libraries from mere repositories to interactive hubs, enriching lives through the democratization of knowledge.

Schedule

Day 1 (12th September 2023)

Time Event
0900 - 0910 Introduction by moderator
0910 - 0930 Opening remarks by YBhg. Datuk Dr. Abang Haji Abdul Rauf bin Abang Haji Zen (Chairman, Board of Management, Pustaka Negeri Sarawak)
0930 - 1010 Keynote Address by Dr. Ghazali Mohd Fadzil,
(President of Librarian’s Association of Malaysia)
1010 - 1035 Commercial Break
1035 - 1105 Advancing User-Centered Design in the UiTM Library
- ADI AZRI MOHAMAD, UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, CAWANGAN SARAWAK KAMPUS MUKAH
1105 - 1135 Program Kail (Karung Ilmu)
- MOHD TARMIZI WAHAB, PERBADANAN PERPUSTAKAAN AWAM NEGERI PERLIS
1135 – 1205 E-Learning Platform By Sarawak State Library
- SHASHA ARANTXA MA’CK CROSE, PUSTAKA NEGERI SARAWAK
1205 - 1235 Menggarap Kolaborasi, Menyemai Budaya Membaca
- RAIFUDEEN ABD LATIF, PERPUSTAKAAN AWAM NEGERI MELAKA

Day 2 (13th September 2023)

Time Event
0900 - 0910 Introduction by moderator
0910 - 0930 Makerspace: Pembudayaan Kreativiti Dan Inovasi Di Pustaka Negeri Sarawak, Miri
- RAZAK RAMBILI, PUSTAKA NEGERI SARAWAK, MIRI
0930 - 0950 Providing Reference Service To Sarawak Civil Service: Current Awareness Service By Pustaka Negeri Sarawak
- ROZANA OCTOVIA RAYMOND UMPU, PUSTAKA NEGERI SARAWAK
0950 - 1010 Mainstreaming Oral History Practise: Pustaka Negeri Sarawak Chapter
- MUHD SHAHRUL BAHRO & NADZRAH MOHD OTHMAN, PUSTAKA NEGERI SARAWAK
1010 - 1030 Possible Ways Forward in Mainstreaming Library and Information Services
- JAPRI BUJANG MASLI, PUSTAKA NEGERI SARAWAK
1030 - 1100 Live Q & A Session

Contact Us

Sarawak Annual Librarians Colloquium (SAL.co 2023)


Paper Committee

1. Hjh. Salina Zawawi
2. Norlailawaty Ismail

Secretariat

1. Hjh. Syeeida Ali Hussein
2. Mohd. Nazari Razali
3. Afiza Ibrahim

Pustaka Negeri Sarawak
Jalan Pustaka , Off Jalan Stadium
93050, Petra Jaya, Kuching, Sarawak.

0138044220
librarian@sarawak.gov.my