Yogyakarta, October 6, 2023—Two Library Science students from UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Woroayu Fitrianingrum and Ayuna Meilawati, have successfully passed the selection process for an internship program at the Presidential Palace in Yogyakarta as librarians, which runs from July 17 to October 31, 2023. Woroayu is a 2021 Library Science student, while Ayuna is from the class of 2019. However, they are not alone in this internship, as three other students from Yogyakarta State University (UNY), majoring in Office Administration, are also participating in this internship in the field of archives.

During the internship program, Woroayu and Ayuna carried out routine tasks such as processing library materials online and reorganizing library materials on the shelves. They played an active role in helping the Yogyakarta Presidential Palace Library preserve its valuable collection. Not only that, these interns were also involved in various additional activities held at the Yogyakarta Presidential Palace. Every Friday, they participated in sports activities with palace staff. These activities included calisthenics, badminton, and occasionally group bike rides. Additionally, they took part in commemorating Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17 by assisting the health department staff and joining the Abyakta choir during the Pancasila Day commemoration ceremony.

On August 29, to commemorate the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, the Presidential Palace in Yogyakarta held a women-only mini-soccer tournament. The participating teams consisted of palace staff and student interns. The teams from Woroayu and Ayuna secured second place in the tournament, bringing them great pride. Prior to the Independence Day celebration, the student interns also participated in a community service activity. They helped put up banners and flags along the streets surrounding the palace. After the celebration concluded, they enthusiastically helped take down the banners and flags as well.

This internship at the Presidential Palace in Yogyakarta provided valuable experience for these Library Science students. In addition to gaining new knowledge and skills in library management, they were also able to participate in various special events held there. As a result, they were able to enrich their college learning experience and prepare themselves for a promising career in the library field.

Authors: Siva Vauziah (zizi) & Najwa Adiwidya Bombay (wawa)