BANDUNG, 2024 — In an effort to understand the dynamics of information exchange in research institutions, the Library and Information Science (PSI) Study Program at Padjadjaran University conducted in-depth research on knowledge sharing at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Library. This collaborative research, involving student Rizki Romadona and lecturers Rully Khairul Anwar and Saleha Rodiah, analyzed the processes, forms, and stages of knowledge sharing as an integral part of knowledge management to support innovation and strengthen special library services.
This research was initiated due to the urgent need for BRIN to optimize knowledge management following the merger of various national research institutions. This integration process poses significant challenges, particularly regarding potential competency gaps among librarians from diverse institutional backgrounds. By identifying and understanding knowledge sharing processes, the researchers hope to strengthen collaboration, align institutional values, and encourage more effective library service innovation.
To achieve this goal, the research team employed a qualitative approach with a case study method, focusing on the BRIN Library under the Directorate of Repositories, Multimedia, and Scientific Publishing. Six BRIN librarians, including coordinators and core staff, were involved as key informants. Data analysis was based on Nonaka and Takeuchi’s Spiral of Knowledge (SECI) theory, which divides the knowledge sharing process into four key stages: socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization.
The results showed that BRIN librarians are highly active in knowledge sharing activities, both formally and informally. The socialization stage is manifested in activities such as workshops, coordination meetings, technical guidance, and informal discussions. Furthermore, the externalization and combination stages are implemented through the documentation and storage of knowledge in various digital formats, including minutes, infographics, proceedings, and Google Drive. This ensures that knowledge is easily accessible and utilized as a basis for decision-making.
The implementation of offline and online knowledge sharing enables a dynamic exchange of ideas among librarians, overcoming barriers that may arise from different organizational backgrounds. This process not only helps reduce competency gaps but also strengthens team synergy. The findings confirm that knowledge management is a fundamental strategy for enhancing innovation and effectiveness of library services at the national research level.
This study has strong relevance to the global commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its contribution aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by encouraging increased capacity of librarians in the research ecosystem, and SDG 4 (Quality Education) by supporting sustainable information management. This research, which underwent a rigorous peer-review process, was accepted on October 8, 2024, and officially published on December 6, 2024, demonstrating that the findings have been recognized and are ready to serve as a reference for the scientific community.
The full article is available at:
http://media.unpad.ac.id/files/publikasi/2025/rpm_20250205215930_1083.pdf
Authors: Ridha Amalia, Nadziva Shaqeena, and Moh. Fikri Ardinata Fuadi
