Gedung Perpustakaan dan Pengetahuan Pertanian Digital sebagai Ruang Pembelajaran Publik dan Third Place

Abstract

Introduction: Digital transformation has encouraged libraries to expand their roles from information providers to spaces for learning and social interaction. This study aims to examine the function of the Agricultural Digital Library and Knowledge Building (P3D) as a third place through an analysis of user characteristics and service utilization patterns. Method: This study employed a descriptive quantitative approach supported by document analysis. The data consisted of P3D visitation records from 2022–2026, documentation of activities conducted at P3D, and user reviews from Google Review. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis and subsequently interpreted through the lens of the third place concept. Results and discussion: The findings indicate that P3D visitation has generally increased over the study period and is dominated by university and school students, although users come from diverse occupational, educational, and demographic backgrounds. Various workshops, training sessions, discussions, and knowledge-sharing activities demonstrate P3D’s role as a public learning space. Analysis of Google Reviews reveals that users perceive P3D as a comfortable environment for learning, working, and social interaction. Conclusion: The study concludes that P3D exhibits key characteristics of a third place: inclusiveness, support for public learning, facilitation of knowledge exchange, and provision of a conducive learning environment. In the context of agricultural libraries, P3D has evolved into a knowledge-based third place with the potential to serve as a public knowledge hub in the digital era.