Get to Know
Kampoeng Batja Jember
Kampoeng Batja Jember
From simple bookshelves, Kampoeng Batja Jember has grown into a literacy tourism destination that brings together knowledge, culture, and meaningful learning experiences .
Growing a Reading Culture Together
Our History
Kampoeng Batja Jember was founded by Iman Suligi, affectionately known as Kung Iman, as an initiative to encourage people to recognize reading as an essential part of everyday life. Its journey began in 1983 with a small library called Indonesia Membaca. Since then, various literacy initiatives have been introduced, including a mobile library, comic book rentals, and other activities aimed at fostering a reading culture within the community.
In 2009, the library officially transformed into a community reading center with a vision of promoting literacy, expanding access to learning, and providing an open educational space for everyone. Over the years, its collection has continued to grow to approximately 4,000 books covering a wide range of subjects and genres. This development has established Kampoeng Batja not only as a learning center but also as a literacy-based educational tourism destination.
Located on Nusa Indah Street, Krajan, Jemberlor, Patrang District, Jember Regency, East Java, Kampoeng Batja actively organizes various literacy programs involving members of the community. Programs such as Literacy Tourism, Book Circle, Rotating Book Lending, Letter Writing Competition, and Podcast reflect Kampoeng Batja’s commitment to promoting reading habits, broadening knowledge, and creating an interactive and inclusive learning environment.
Facilities
Kampoeng Batja Jember offers a variety of facilities to support reading, learning, and community activities in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
The reading room at Kampoeng Batja offers a quiet atmosphere that supports reading and learning activities. The bookshelves are arranged dynamically by its founder, Kung Iman, so the layout is frequently refreshed to create a new experience for visitors. The seating arrangement is also thoughtfully organized to accommodate reading, discussions, and study sessions. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of books in a pleasant environment that feels fresh and inviting.
The museum features a collection of antique and historical items, including vintage telephones, radios, typewriters, musical instruments, Japanese kimonos, blangkon, paintings, dolls, and old school books. With its classic design, the museum offers a nostalgic atmosphere where visitors can learn about the history and purpose of each collection.
Kampoeng Batja Jember provides an open space with a peaceful, green atmosphere for a variety of activities. Equipped with a simple pavilion, floor seating areas, and surrounded by shady trees, this space is suitable for discussions, meetings, training sessions, school activities, and community gatherings. Visitors are welcome to use this area free of charge.
Visitors who would like to stay longer can use the accommodation provided by Kampoeng Batja Jember. There is no fixed room rate, but guests are welcome to make a donation to help support the maintenance and development of the accommodation facilities.
Kampoeng Batja Publications
Discover a collection of writings published by Kampoeng Batja, including short stories, poems, book reviews, inspirational quotes, and the latest updates on Kampoeng Batja's activities.
Kampoeng Batja Jember publishes a weekly bulletin every Thursday. Each edition features book reviews, inspirational quotes, short stories, poems, and updates about Kampoeng Batja's activities. Kampoeng Batja also publishes a magazine containing fairy tales, articles, and short stories as a place to share creative works and enjoyable reading. The first edition of the magazine was published in December 2025.
Scan to view Kampoeng Batja’s work !