National Library of Indonesia facts for kids
The National Library of Indonesia is a super important place located in Jakarta, which is the capital city of Indonesia. Think of it as the main library for the whole country! Its job is to collect and keep safe all the books, magazines, and other printed materials published in Indonesia. It's like a giant memory bank for the nation's knowledge and stories.
This special library was officially started on May 17, 1980. By law, a copy of every single printed work published in Indonesia must be sent to the National Library. This way, future generations can always learn from the past.
Contents
What is a National Library?
A national library is different from your local school or public library. It's usually the biggest library in a country. Its main goal is to collect and preserve all the books, newspapers, and other writings produced in that nation. It also often collects important works from other countries.
Why are National Libraries Important?
National libraries are super important for many reasons. They keep a record of a country's history, culture, and ideas. They make sure that valuable information isn't lost over time. They also help people learn and do research. Imagine trying to find an old newspaper from 100 years ago – a national library would likely have it!
History of the Library
The idea of a national library in Indonesia has a long history. It didn't just appear in 1980. Its roots go back to earlier libraries and collections.
Early Beginnings
The story of Indonesia's National Library started with the Royal Batavian Society of Arts and Sciences. This group was formed way back in 1778. They started collecting books and other materials. Their collection grew over many years. It became a very important place for learning and research.
Becoming the National Library
Over time, different library collections were brought together. The goal was to create one big, central library for Indonesia. Finally, in 1980, the National Library of Indonesia was officially created. It combined the collections of several older libraries, including the library of the Royal Batavian Society. This made it a truly national treasure.
What Can You Find There?
The National Library of Indonesia holds an amazing collection of items. It's not just books!
Types of Collections
You can find millions of items here. This includes books, magazines, and newspapers. But there are also old manuscripts, maps, photographs, and even recordings. They have special collections of rare books and historical documents. These items tell the story of Indonesia's past.
Digital Resources
Like many modern libraries, the National Library of Indonesia also has digital resources. This means you can access some of their collections online. This makes it easier for people all over the country, and even the world, to use their materials. They are working to digitize more and more of their collection.
Visiting the Library
The National Library of Indonesia is a modern and impressive building. It's a great place for students, researchers, and anyone who loves to read and learn.
The Building Itself
The library is located in Jakarta. It has many floors and lots of space for reading and studying. There are special rooms for different types of collections. The building is designed to be comfortable and welcoming for visitors. It even has a very tall bookcase in its lobby!
Who Can Visit?
Anyone can visit the National Library of Indonesia. It's a public institution. You can go there to read, study, or just explore. It's a wonderful place to learn more about Indonesia's rich history and culture.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Biblioteca nacional de Indonesia para niños