Workshop: Chinese Knots
The Traditional Chinese Knots workshop provided an interactive and hands-on learning experience as part of introducing the heritage of craft and visual expression within Chinese culture. During the session, participants learned the basic techniques of knot-making and explored the various forms and patterns that have developed within this traditional craft. Chinese knots are widely recognized as decorative elements with strong artistic value and are commonly featured in celebrations and handcrafted works. In an engaging and participatory setting, participants had the opportunity to practice the knotting process directly, developing precision and hand skills while appreciating the distinctive visual details of this craft tradition. The workshop served as a creative learning space that introduced cultural heritage through practical experience. The session was facilitated by Jessica Nondolesmono, B.Ed., M.TCSOL., Lecturer at the Chinese Department of Petra Christian University, who guided participants in understanding both the techniques and the cultural context of Chinese knotting as a traditional craft.
Exhibition: Stories Written and Lived
CCIS (Center for Chinese Indonesian Studies) is a study center under the Institute for Research and Community Services (LPPM) of Petra Christian University. Its main focus is in the studies of things related to the lives of Chinese Indonesian community. The Chinese Indonesian community has been part of Indonesia since long before the nation was formally established. However, many aspects of this community have not yet been widely studied in academic research. From their early migration from China to the present day, Chinese Indonesians have experienced significant processes of localization and acculturation that have shaped a distinct identity and diverse ways of life. CCIS focuses its attention on understanding and studying these processes. CCIS works with many different stakeholders to carry out its mission. It supports academic communities in learning more about the lives of Chinese Indonesians through research and reliable information. CCIS collects and shares data and resources that can be used for national and international development. At the same time, it provides accessible information for the wider public to help build understanding and promote harmonious relationships among people from different ethnic backgrounds. This exhibition features materials from CCIS, part of Petra Christian University Library’s special collections, and explores Chinese Indonesian experiences through the theme “Stories Written and Lived”. It presents two interconnected forms of storytelling. The written narratives are presented through books and research papers that examine Chinese Indonesian identity, history, and intellectual life. The lived narratives are conveyed through archival photographs documenting the development of evangelism in Indonesia by Chinese Indonesian descendants, capturing moments of mission, service, and community life. The exhibition also features a student work portraying the acculturation of Chinese and Indonesia wedding culture known as “Cina Benteng”, highlighting another dimension of Chinese Indonesian presence in Indonesian society. To extend the experience beyond the exhibition space, a series of accompanying activities are offered. Visitors who borrow books from the CCIS collection will receive a free keychain as a small token of appreciation. The exhibition is also complemented by fun activities, a Chinese knot workshop, and literacy classes, all designed to encourage learning, reflection, and meaningful engagement with the stories presented.
Launching: Pohon Natal Terang Dari Timur 2025
“Terang Dari Timur” Christmas tree is a distinctive 7-meter-tall Christmas tree inspired by Papua. It combines a wooden structure, Christmas lights, and generative-AI motifs influenced by Papuan cultural symbols such as the Tifa drum, Honai traditional house, Asmat shield, Lesung canoe, Noken woven bag, Cassowary crown, and the Bird of Paradise. Enriched with traditional Papuan musical instruments, the tree presents the beauty of art, nature, and Papuan identity in a form that is warm and filled with joy. As a representation of Papua—the easternmost region of Indonesia—this tree embodies cultural harmony in welcoming the light of Christmas for all. The name “Terang Dari Timur” symbolizes the coming of Christ’s light that shines upon the world, just as the sun rises in the east bringing new hope. In the meaning of Christmas, “Terang Dari Timur” also reflects the light that appeared at the birth of Jesus—the light that broke through the darkness, guided the Magi, and proclaimed good news to all nations. If the university’s Christmas theme emphasizes mission and the care we share with others, this tree leads us back to the True Light who first gave, first loved, and became the reason we are able to share that light with the world. In the context of Papua, this tree stands as a symbol that the peace, love, and hope of Christmas reach every corner of the archipelago, including the land of Papua. Each Papuan cultural element represented in the tree affirms one message: that amid the diversity of ethnicities and traditions, the light of Christ is present to unite, strengthen, and bring new life to humanity. The tree also reminds us that this light is not only to be celebrated, but to be carried forward—inviting each person to become a bearer of love, compassion, and joy to others.
Bedah Buku & Talkshow “Sticky Lectures: Metode Ceramah yang Melekat”
Lecture-based teaching methods often receive negative reactions among educators. They are frequently perceived as outdated and monotonous. However, in reality, lectures are still widely used in teaching, even if not delivered in long durations or large portions. Recognizing this reality led the author to conduct research on how lecture methods can still create meaningful and lasting learning experiences for students. Based on this research, a book was written to invite lecturers and educators to revisit the fundamental steps of teaching that can leave a lasting impact on students and other audiences. The book Sticky Lectures serves as a reminder of the “basic steps” in the “dance” of teaching. It explores various factors that make a lecture memorable and impactful. Rather than offering a rigid formula to be applied mechanically, the book presents a collection of principles and steps that can be creatively combined to produce teaching with greater influence and effectiveness. The launch of this book is expected to contribute positively to higher education, where lectures continue to be commonly used. It aims to equip educators with practical insights for more meaningful teaching, ultimately supporting better education and bringing glory to God.
Science Film Festival 2025: Green Jobs
For more than two decades, the Science Film Festival has demonstrated how film can transform science communication into an engaging, inspiring, and accessible learning experience. In 2025, the festival reached 953,828 viewers across 20 countries under the theme Green Jobs, highlighting how sustainable professions contribute to environmental protection, innovation, and social well-being. Beyond film screenings, the festival promotes hands-on learning through workshops, experiments, and interactive discussions accompanying the program. These activities encourage participants to connect scientific ideas with everyday life, reflect on future career choices, and develop practical skills related to sustainability and climate action. Particularly in regions with limited access to quality science education, the Science Film Festival plays a vital role in making science more approachable and relevant for young generations. By showcasing real-world solutions and introducing green career opportunities, the festival fosters curiosity, strengthens educational networks, and once again demonstrates the power of film to inspire dialogue and collective action toward a more sustainable future. This year, Petra Christian University Library serves as a venue partner of Goethe-Institut Indonesia in hosting the Science Film Festival. The program invites junior high school students from partner schools and elementary school students from nearby schools to participate in film screenings and accompanying educational activities. Through this collaboration, the library hopes to inspire more young learners to explore science in ways that are creative, meaningful, and relevant to future challenges.
Pameran: Inovasi Keberlanjutan untuk Masa Depan
In collaboration with students from the Mechanical Engineering Department under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Juliana Anggono, S.T., M.Sc., and students from the Architecture Department supervised by Mr. Gunawan Tanuwidjaja, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., IAI, Petra Christian University Library showcases selected student works related to sustainable innovation in an exhibition entitled “Sustainable Innovation for the Future.” The exhibition features various projects that reflect creative thinking and practical solutions to contemporary environmental challenges. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students develop ideas that emphasize not only technical and design aspects, but also social impact, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability. This initiative represents Petra Christian University Library’s commitment to fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and providing a platform for students to present their innovative works to the wider community. The library serves not only as a center for information, but also as a dynamic space that encourages research, idea exploration, and the development of sustainable solutions for the future.
Pantehelix-Batik: Kolaborasi Untuk Masa Depan Batik
As part of the “Memetik Pucuk Batik” Exhibition series, Petra Christian University Library is organizing a talk show entitled “Pentahelix-Batik: Collaboration for the Future of Batik” on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 10.00 AM to 12.30 PM at theatre room, Petra Christian University Library, Surabaya. This event serves as an important momentum to open a space for dialogue and strengthen cross-sector collaboration in supporting the preservation and development of batik as an Indonesian cultural heritage and a source of contemporary innovation. Adopting the Pentahelix concept, the talk show brings together five speakers from various sectors representing academia, community, creative industry, research, and media: Dr. Ir. Lintu Tulistyantoro, M.Ds. as an academic and batik observer; Dra. Anik Rakhmawati, M.Pd as a representative of batik enthusiast and preservation communities; Silvia Ratnani, founder of GENARTA Collection, representing the creative industry in batik innovation; Drs. Gatut Priyowidodo, Ph.D. as an academic and museum batik researcher; and Dr. Ido Prijana Hadi, M.Si as an expert in media and communication for batik preservation. Through this discussion, the speakers will share insights and experiences on the importance of cross-sector synergy in building a creative, sustainable batik ecosystem that remains rooted in cultural heritage values. In addition to the main session, the event will feature an interactive discussion, providing participants with the opportunity to actively engage, share ideas, and expand collaborative networks. This initiative reflects Petra Christian University Library’s commitment to providing contextual and relevant spaces for knowledge sharing. The library serves not only as a center for literacy and information resources, but also as a dynamic space for research, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing culture and innovation.
Seminar: When Digital Literacy Powered by AI
In commemoration of International Literacy Day 2025, Petra Christian University Library organized a seminar entitled “When Digital Literacy Powered by AI” on Friday, 19th September 2025. The seminar served as a platform to discuss the role and development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in strengthening digital literacy across various aspects of life, particularly within the academic environment. The seminar was attended by students who showed great enthusiasm in gaining a deeper understanding of the relationship between digital literacy and AI technology. Through this session, participants were encouraged to view digital literacy not merely as the ability to use digital devices, but also as the capacity to think critically, evaluate information, and utilize technology in an ethical and responsible manner. The seminar content was based on the UNESCO Digital Literacy Framework, which emphasizes the importance of accessing, understanding, evaluating, creating, and communicating information through digital technologies wisely. In the context of AI development, participants were invited to reflect on how artificial intelligence can serve as a tool to support digital literacy, while also presenting challenges that require ethical awareness and academic responsibility. This seminar marked the closing event of the International Literacy Day activities at the Petra Christian University Library, which also included a Reading Session and Literacy Giveaways. Through this series of activities, the library reaffirms its commitment to actively fostering a culture of literacy that is relevant, adaptive to technological advancements, and supportive of the academic community.
Talkshow: Ceritamu Dimulai dari Membaca
Petra Christian University Library held a talk show titled “Your Story Start From Reading” on August 27, 2025, at the Library’s 7th Floor Area. This event aimed to promote a culture of literacy among students by emphasizing the importance of reading as the foundation for critical thinking and academic writing skills. The session featured Johan Alvin Khosuma (Pak JAK), a branding consultant and author, who shared his experiences on how consistent reading habits can shape one’s ability to write effectively and think scientifically. In a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, Pak JAK encouraged students to see reading not just as an academic task, but as an enriching activity that broadens perspectives, cultivates empathy, and sparks creativity. The event also introduced students to various Petra Library services and collections, both in print and digital formats, highlighting the library’s role as a modern literacy hub supporting learning and intellectual growth. In addition to the discussion, the program included interactive games and quizzes that encouraged active participation. Students showed great enthusiasm throughout the session, actively engaging in the dialogue with the speaker. The talk show concluded with a group photo and prize distribution for the most active participants. Through this event, the library hopes to inspire students to build consistent reading habits, discover their passion for writing, and take part in strengthening the culture of literacy within the university community.
Smart Start with Petra Christian University Library
To welcome the new Batch ’25 students and celebrate the return of continuing students after the semester break, the PCU Library launched a month-long event series titled “Smart Start with PCU Library.” The program kicked off on August 11, 2025, offering a warm and engaging start to the new academic year. Through this series, the PCU Library aimed to help students get familiar with the library’s resources, services, and spaces — all while having fun and building connections. The activities included:📚 Library Exhibition — showcasing PCU Library’s diverse collections, digital resources, and services available for academic and research needs.🎯 Library Trivia Quiz and Games — interactive sessions that tested students’ knowledge about the library while adding a touch of friendly competition.🎓 Library Literacy Class: Introduction to PCU Library — a class designed to help new students navigate the library, access e-resources, and make the most of what the library offers.🍪 Welcome Snack — a sweet gesture from the library to greet students during their first 10 days back on campus.📸 Library Photo Contest: “PCU Library Through My Lens” — inviting students to capture their unique perspectives and experiences inside the library. More than just a set of activities, Smart Start with PCU Library represented the library’s commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging environment for all students, a place where learning begins with curiosity and connection.