Bandung, August 2025 – A research team from the Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran (Fikom Unpad), is conducting an innovative study on the use of social media by Community Reading Parks (Taman Bacaan Masyarakat/TBM) in Bandung Regency. This research focuses on mapping TBM’s digital communication practices in promoting literacy movements while identifying strategies, opportunities, and challenges faced in the digital transformation era.
The study, titled “Mapping the Social Media-Based Literacy Movement in TBM of Bandung Regency”, will be carried out over one year, from August to December 2025, using a mixed-method explanatory sequential approach. The first phase involves online surveys and social media analytics to capture general patterns of social media usage, while the second phase includes in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) to explore communication strategies, organizational dynamics, and the supporting and inhibiting factors in the field.
According to the research team leader, Dr. Elnovani Lusiana, the study is expected to produce a social innovation model in the form of a community-based social media network that can strengthen the role of TBM as digital literacy agents. “TBM are not only reading spaces but also community hubs that can harness digital technology to expand their reach, increase public participation, and build a sustainable literacy culture,” she stated.
The study also highlights the challenges of digital literacy, such as misinformation and declining reading interest. By leveraging social media, TBM can become more adaptive and relevant, particularly for younger generations. The research outcomes will include a tested innovation model that can be replicated by TBM communities in other regions, as well as scientific publications and policy briefs to support the dissemination of results among policymakers, academics, and literacy practitioners.
This initiative contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals. It aligns with SDG 4 on quality education by promoting digital literacy improvement through community-based social innovation. At the same time, it supports SDG 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure by developing a digital communication model that leverages technology to strengthen literacy networks in local communities.
Through its partnership with the Bandung Regency TBM Forum, this research is expected to make a significant contribution to strengthening Indonesia’s national literacy movement, making it more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable. (SNA)
