TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The idea of a date doesn't always have to be expensive. For Gen Z couples, visiting a library can be a unique option. The tranquil atmosphere, aesthetics, and the opportunity for a more intimate and meaningful date experience.
Compared to a romantic dinner date or watching a movie, the 'library date' concept offers a different ambiance. Couples can enjoy their time together while reading their favorite books, having light discussions, and hunting for aesthetic photo spots among the bookshelves.
Aside from being budget-friendly, this activity also provides an opportunity for deeper personal understanding through the choice of readings, making it a simple yet memorable date idea.
Here are some library date options in Jakarta:
1. National Library
The National Library or Perpusnas is a popular destination for visitors. Located at Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 11, Central Jakarta, this library is one of the recommended destinations for a library date.
The building has 24 floors with unique services on each floor. For couples who are fiction novel enthusiasts, the 22nd floor is a must-visit. Here, visitors can read their favorite novels while casually chatting with their partners, accompanied by comfortable sofas and chairs.
If hungry, visit the 4th floor which has a cafeteria offering a variety of menus starting from Rp20,000. On this floor, there is also a mini cooperative that sells various snacks and beverages. It should be noted that food and drinks can only be consumed in the cafeteria area and visitors are not allowed to bring food to the reading area.
Don't miss the 24th floor, the highest level of Perpusnas. The Nusantara cultural collection area and the executive lounge here create a luxurious atmosphere like a mini museum. From the rooftop connected to the 24th floor, visitors can take photos with their partners with the backdrop of Jakarta's panorama and the National Monument from a height of around 126.3 meters. This view provides a unique and unusual romantic impression.
Perpusnas operates from Monday to Friday, starting at 08:00 to 19:00 WIB (Western Indonesian Time). On Saturdays and Sundays, it opens from 09:00 to 16:00 WIB.
2. Jakarta Library
The Jakarta Library, also known as Perpus Cikini, is located in Taman Ismail Marzuki, Menteng, Central Jakarta. This library features amenities such as reading rooms, KCKR book rooms, and provides access to reading materials for the public.
Its unique design, with a large staircase extending upwards, creates its own aesthetics for visitors. The cozy reading spots with comfortable cushions are suitable for relaxing together with your partner while discussing favorite books.
This library operates from Monday to Sunday, starting at 09:00 to 22:00 WIB. On Fridays, the check-in is temporarily closed from 11:30 to 13:00 WIB.
Unlike other public libraries, visitors need to register as members beforehand to enter this library. Registration and reservations can be made through the official Jakarta Library website (https://perpustakaan.jakarta.go.id). Visitors can also register on-site using a barcode.
3. Japan Foundation Jakarta Library
Located near Senayan MRT Station, the Japan Foundation Jakarta is suitable for couples who are fond of Japanese culture. This library provides various book collections, ranging from Japanese language learning books, Japanese fiction novels, to manga (Japanese comics).
Sitting back and spending quality time with your loved one, discussing things you both like, is nothing more romantic than that. The classic building with neatly arranged chairs and bookshelves makes this library feel simple, so there's no need to worry about getting lost.
The operational hours of the Japan Foundation are from Monday to Friday, from 09:30 to 12:30 WIB, with a break before resuming operations from 13:30 to 16:30 WIB.
4. Literacy Park Library
A small library with glass walls takes visitors on a unique reading experience. It's minimalistic yet comfortable, with a few chairs and floor cushions for lounging.
Located at Martha Christina Tiahahu Literacy Park, Blok M, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, this library is surrounded by various popular spots among young people. It's suitable for couples who enjoy exploring new things, then relaxing at the library to end the day.
This library operates from Monday to Sunday, from 08:00 to 21:00 WIB. Despite its small size, the library provides up to 3,000 book collections, so visitors don't have to worry about running out of reading materials.
5. Dutch Cultural Center Erasmus Huis
The Erasmus Huis library offers a modern and comfortable atmosphere for reading, with a wide collection of books in Dutch, English, and Indonesian. Located in Kuningan Timur, Setiabudi, South Jakarta, this library is an open space that is friendly to everyone. There are many activities that can be done, such as reading, borrowing books, interacting with your partner, or simply enjoying its beautiful interior.
The Erasmus Huis Library collection covers approximately 9,000 book titles. Its main focus is Dutch literature, but it also provides children's books, translations of Dutch novels into English and Indonesian, as well as various other publications related to the relationship between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
The library operates from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 to 16:00 WIB, and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. It's suitable for couples to spend time discussing books and Dutch culture into the afternoon.
Annisa Nur Alimah contributes to this article.
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