Contributed by:
Shameem Nilofar, University Librarian, SMU Libraries
Rajen Munoo, Advisor Learning Programs and Global Relations, SMU Libraries
With Inputs from:
Dr Ida Fajar Priyanto, Ph.D. Advisor FPPTI East Java; Universitas Gadjah Mada
Melati Purba Bestari, Chair of FPPTI East Java. Librarian; Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang
Chandra Pratama Setiawan, Vice Chair of FPPTI East Java. Librarian; Universitas Kristen Petra
(25 Jun 2026) An educational programme, collaborated between Singapore Management University Libraries (SMUL) and the Forum Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi Indonesia (FPPTI) East Java, has held successfully with fruitful results for both parties.
About the ExPreSS Programme
The Surabaya ExPrESS Programme (Experience Program Education in Surabaya–Singapore for Library Management) represents a strategic initiative to strengthen leadership capabilities among academic librarians in Indonesia. Building on the success of its inaugural run in October 2024, the programme reflects a deepening collaboration between Singapore Management University Libraries (SMUL) and the Forum Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi Indonesia (FPPTI) East Java. The Surabaya ExPrESS Programme for ExPrESS for short is an eight-day hybrid programme where five days is spent online (based in Surabaya) and three days in Singapore. Aimed a capacity building amongst academic librarians in managerial roles, this leadership programme combines strategic insights with applied practice. The central theme of this edition was Artificial Intelligence (AI) for service development and delivery—reflecting the growing importance of digital transformation in academic libraries. Thirteen librarians accompanied by four committee members attended the one-day programme at SMU Libraries on 15 April 2026.
Engaging Discussions on Stakeholder Engagement
Programme At a Glance: What did they learn?
Designed with SMU Libraries pedagogical framework, instructional methods included lectures, group work, case studies and discussions, debates, and a library tour. Additionally, pedagogical approaches included active learning using real-world and problem-based learning. The learning outcomes aimed to equip participants to:
- Acquire knowledge of AI applications in libraries.
- Keep up to date with trends in academic libraries.
- Develop an action plan to transfer knowledge in the workplace.
Shameem Nilofar Maideen, University Librarian, gave a seminar on Reframing Value in the Age of Information Abundance which highlighted the need to embrace the digital transformation of libraries whilst staying rooted to our professional core values. This was followed by two case studies. The first focusing on Using AI Tools to Support Researchers is facilitated by Bella Ratmelia, Senior Librarian, Research & Data Services followed by Sumita Govindan, Senior Librarian, Instruction & Learning Services who shared on her experience of Building AI Literacy & Critical Thinking Into Library Instruction. Dr Ida Fajar Priyanto premised the AI Debate which was highly interactive and opinionated. A Learning Journey of SMU Libraries was the finale for an otherwise intensive day of active learning.
The AI Debate and Presentations
Participant Feedback: What did they say?
“Learning program is suited with my need especially the need of library management.”
“The programme was well-structured, relevant to my professional needs, and gave me useful insights that I can implement moving forward.”
“A good programme, broadening one’s horizons and imparting new knowledge, particularly regarding the value of libraries to institutions.”
“Studied about AI as a tools for support research.”
Above are some of the responses to the survey question about what participants liked about the programme underscoring how they benefited from it.
Participants requested for a longer duration of the programme and more hands-on activities for AI-related topics. Being aspirational, they requested for other courses on research data management, leadership, UX and space planning and design in addition to the limitless topics on various aspects of AI – the good, the bad and ugly!
In summary, feedback from participants highlighted three key areas of impact: the integration of AI into services and workflows; strengthening library value through improved communication and stakeholder engagement; and enhancing user-centred services through collaboration and programme innovation. These outcomes reflect a broader shift towards AI-enabled, value-driven libraries that prioritise user needs and continuous improvement.
Reflection from SMUL
Reflecting on the ExPrESS programme and partnership, SMUL is heartened to note the work and efforts of the Forum Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi Indonesia (FPPTI) East Java and the importance of library associations such as the FPPTI, East Java in advocating and championing the need for the continuing professional development of library and information professional especially in the age of AI disruption. Indonesian librarians are passionate and a programme such as ExPrESS is already crystal ball gazing. As 2030 dawns upon us, the World Economic Forum noted the increasingly symbiotic relationship between technological and human skills such as cognitive skills and collaboration. The latter being a call to action, especially when budget and resource constraints remain a challenge. With a no one left behind and no institution is an island, libraries and librarians can partner and collaborate with its various stakeholders to become future-ready. ExPrESS 2027 is already full steam ahead in the making!
The Surabaya ExPrESS: Next Stop
The Forum Perpustakaan Perguruan Tinggi Indonesia (FPPTI) East Java under the leadership of Melati Purba Bestari (Chair) and Chandra Pratama Setiawan (Vice-Chair) is invested in the continuing professional development and capacity building of librarians in Surabaya and beyond. Despite challenges such as budget constraints faced by many higher education institutions in Indonesia, the initiative has proven to be a high-impact professional development effort. Building on this success, planning for the 2027 run is already underway. The ExPrESS Programme stands as a strong example of how strategic international collaboration can effectively strengthen capacity and drive innovation in academic libraries across ASEAN, in line with SMU’s mission to harness partnerships and serve as a gateway between Asia and the world.
