Challenges often test our limits, define our capabilities, reveal our strengths, and open doors to new possibilities. At the College of Science Libraries, every difficulty is seen as an opportunity to innovate, grow, discover new inspirations, and build stronger connections. Our dedication to customer satisfaction, continuous progress, and teamwork has enabled us not only to overcome obstacles but to transform our achievements into vital contributions that strengthen our services and roles within the College of Science (CS) community. We recognize that serving a diverse academic community brings different expectations and interpretations of our work. Yet, the CS Libraries remain unshaken and grounded by our vision and goals. In 2024, we redefined our presence through strong online initiatives. Our enhanced website, active social media engagement, accessible digital repositories, and personalized email support have created a dynamic platform that seamlessly connects students, researchers, and faculty with the resources they need. Alongside these efforts, we’ve revised our Citizen’s Charter polishing our processes by targeting service improvement that prioritizes accessibility, research support, and overall library services across all CS Libraries. 

Collaboration has always been the cornerstone of our services. Strategic partnerships with the Associate Dean Offices and other College of Science institutes have broadened our services and fostered meaningful academic networks. Initiatives such as launching research and extension services and personalized services in all CS libraries highlight our dedication to addressing the unique and specific needs of the CS community.

Our accomplishments reflect how we have grown and made an impact in 2024: a persistent commitment to innovation and reliability that includes the following:

Strengthening our Digital Reach and Digitization Practices

Consistent efforts toward better engagement with our community by maintaining a dynamic presence and streamlining access and services through our digital bookshelf, website, online repository, and email support, we have remained committed to being entirely online. This led to a significant increase in user engagement with a 554% increase in CSLIB website views, a 14% increase in eBook Hub registrations, and a 0.71% increase in eBook Hub Users.

Fostering Partnership and Collaboration

Establishing meaningful partnerships between institutions has enabled knowledge-sharing and best practice exchanges through library tours, and resource enrichment through book donations. These collaborations have strengthened academic networks, empowered fellow libraries, and fostered deeper connections between institutions ensuring long-term and impactful partnerships.

Launch of the Research and Extension Services (RES)

In response to the growing need for effective data management, we established one of the major milestones, the establishment of the Research and Extension Services (RES) Unit. This unit will support the Research & Information System development offering seamless tools for managing, sharing, and archiving research data, securing the accuracy and integrity of information, and ensuring the long-term value and reproducibility of research efforts. These ensure impactful research and seamless collaboration–proving that with the right tools and teamwork, even the most complex challenges can lead to transformative outcomes. Notably, requests for research data services increased by 8%, continuing the steady rise observed since 2019.

Enhancing Physical Spaces for Every Need

With an increase of 26% in library visits this year totaling 228,613, we have prioritized user spaces and accessibility. This is supported by the reopening of a second discussion room and the addition of tables and chairs during peak seasons. Throughout the year, the CS libraries refurbished tables and replaced damaged chairs to maintain a clean and comfortable environment.

Supporting Mental health and Well-being

The CS Libraries recognize the importance of mental health having witnessed the daily challenges and victories of our students who are the primary users in our libraries. In response, we customize our spaces to encourage leisure reading and relaxation in our 2nd-floor Cozy Corners, and in the Study Nook Relaxation and Napping Area with comfortable pillows, bean bags, and mats. These spaces were thoughtfully designed to provide a secure and comfortable space environment where students can unwind, recharge and just take a moment to rest. During finals week, the CSLib staff collaborates with the CS Student Council and CSLib Canteen to host special events like Kapihan or Pakain, providing meals, snacks, and hot drinks to support students studying overnight at the Study Nook. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting students’ mental health and well-being.

Providing Personalized Library Services

Tailored services remain to be our brand. By addressing the specific needs of each Institute, we have solidified our role as a reliable and trusted academic resource of information. This year, the purposeful use of social media and other official communication channels resulted in a 28% increase in library service requests received. Despite a 16% decrease in general queries, this reflects the proactive and effective dissemination of information through our social media channels, official emails, orientations, and reference services. These accomplishments highlight our steadfast commitment to offering personalized and impactful services that address the growing and shifting needs of our academic community.

Staying Committed to Continuous Improvement

Through the revision of our CS Libraries Citizen’s Charter, we reaffirmed our dedication to ensuring our processes align with ARTA requirements. This initiative reflects a strategic effort to maintain that library processes remain efficient, our vision and goals are upheld, and services are more responsive and user-centered.

Our journey doesn’t stop here. As we move forward, we are driven to push boundaries, explore new possibilities, and rise above every challenge that comes our way. Resilience is at the core of who we are as a team, and we will break barriers to effectively meet the needs of the College of Science community. Year after year, we renew our commitment, to continue transforming challenges into opportunities, shaping a future where innovation, teamwork, and collaboration become ingrained in our culture. This is our story —a story of resilience, growth, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Full Report: CSLIB Annual Report 2024

Prepared by: RES Librarians