PUBLIC LIBRARY · SOUTH JAKARTA
ERASMUS HUIS LIBRARY
Kuningan, South Jakarta · 10.00 – 16.00 (Tue – Sat) · Free entry
If you are looking for a library that combines reading with exploration, Erasmus Huis can be a great choice.
By Meysa Khadizah • June 02, 2026
Erasmus Huis Library is located inside Erasmus Huis, the cultural center of the Netherlands Embassy in Jakarta. Erasmus Huis itself has been part of Jakarta’s cultural scene since 1970.
For more than fifty years, Erasmus Huis has represented the cultural relationship between the Netherlands and Indonesia. The place was built not only to introduce Dutch culture, but also to create a space where people from both countries can meet through art, language, literature, and public programs.
With this long cultural background, Erasmus Huis Library becomes part of a Dutch-Indonesian cultural center that carries stories, ideas, and historical connections between the two countries.
The library holds around 15,000 titles focusing on Dutch literature, Indonesian history, arts and culture, and children's books, all in a bright and spacious area. Whether you are interested in Dutch culture or international cultural spaces, Erasmus Huis Library is a meaningful place to explore.
Space Area
Library & Reading Area
Open reading space with a wide collection of books, newspapers, magazines, and a seating area. A perfect space to read and study.
Walking into Erasmus Huis feels more like stepping into a gallery that happens to have books. The space is white, open, and visually clean with wooden bookshelves that double as walls, guiding you through the space like a curated path.
Mezzaine Level
Above the main floor, there is a second level that runs along the edges of the space. This level is served mainly by bookshelves. The high ceiling and two-level layout visually connect both floors. It makes the library feel larger.
Exhibition Hall
Flexible gallery space for visual arts, photography, and installations. Exhibitions change every few months and highlight Dutch–Indonesian cultural dialogue.
Auditorium
A spacious performance hall for concerts, dance, film screenings, and theatre. Regular shows and cultural events are held here every month.
Mornings and Afternoons
The library is usually calm and not too crowded. Natural light fills the space, and large windows and open space create a comfortable atmosphere. It is easy to lose track of time with a good book.
During Exhibition Periods
Even if you come to the library, you may end up spending time in the exhibition hall as well. Since exhibitions change regularly, each visit can feel a little different depending on what is being displayed at the time.
HOW IT FEELS TO SPEND TIME HERE
Spending time at Erasmus Huis feels like stepping into a space that slows you down in the best way. The white interior, wooden bookshelves, and quiet atmosphere make it easy to stay longer than you planned.
Dutch–Indonesian
Registered Titles on JAKLITERA
COLLECTIONS
15,000
Titles
Dutch Literature
Collections at PDS H.B. Jassin
Main Collection Categories
Dutch Literature
Indonesian History
Art & Culture
Children's Books
English Translations
Newspapers & Magazines
Languages
Collection Focus
Dutch
English
Indonesian
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Dutch fiction, poetry, and non-fiction
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Books on Dutch–Indonesian relations and history
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Arts, design, fashion, and culture
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Children's literature (Dutch & bilingual)
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Current newspapers and magazines
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Rule
To borrow books from the Erasmus Huis Library, become a member.
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Price
Rp 50,000 (Annual Membership) (Cash only)
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Benefits
1. Borrow up to 3 books
2. Loan period: 3 weeks
MEMBERSHIP
Available
Library
Modern, friendly, and open reading space to read, study, or borrow books.
Member Only
Auditorium
Main performance space for music, dance, film, and theatre.
Available
Free Admission
All events and programs are free and open to the public.
FACILITIES
Available
Exhibition Hall
Flexible gallery for visual arts, photography, and thematic exhibitions.
Available
Event Space
The library can be used for seminars, workshops, and special events.
PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES
Monthly Programs
Bioskoop Erasmus / Family Film Screening
Mass reading program with rewards. Participants register via JAKLITERA and record the books they read.
Music Concerts
Monthly live concerts featuring genres such as classical, jazz, folk, indie rock, and more.
Pesta Cerita Anak (TaCita)
Talks, artist discussions, and symposiums on literature, history, and social-cultural topics.
Public Lectures & Discussions
Regular read-aloud, storytelling, and fun activities for children.
Rethinking Waste / Bukan Tentang Sampah
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February – May 2026
Exploring circular design and sustainable living.
LABBAYK: Here I Am
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May – August 2026
Photographic journey of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Clogs, Tulips and Video Games
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June – August 2026
Exploring Dutch creativity in video game design.
Jejak Batik
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March – April 2026
Women, craftsmanship, and the story of batik.
Major Exhibitions (Changing Every 2–3 Months)
Annual Events
World Press Photo Exhibition
Showcasing the best photojournalism in the world. Held every year (Nov–Dec).
Pasar Belanda
The biggest annual event celebrating the Dutch–Indonesian relationship with market, performances, and films.
Erasmus Huis Club Night
A lively DJ event featuring artists from both countries, including the first silent disco ever held in a library in Indonesia.
For the latest updates, schedules, and registrations, it’s best to check:
Website: netherlandsandyou.nl/web/indonesia/erasmushuis
Instagram: @erasmushuis_jakart
WHAT VISITORS SAY
A comfortable place, even if it's just for resting and reading. Even though it's located on the edge of a busy courtyard, it's very quiet inside, and the atmosphere is also very comfortable.
— Fazri El, Google Reviews
Great quiet spot to relax and read for a while, and a small cozy cafe with some classic Dutch treats on offer! Policy (new?) is that you can't use a laptop in this space, as the priority is for library goers to read.
— Robbert, Google Reviews
This place is really cool. The moment you walk in, it doesn't feel like you're in Indonesia anymore. Everyone is very friendly, from the security at the front to the security inside. It was also fun when there was a Dutch children's film screening. There's no parking here so it can be tricky if you bring a vehicle. The nearest TransJakarta stop is Halte Underpass Kuningan.
— Ka Vina, Google Reviews
Location & Access
Address
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. S-3, Kuningan, South Jakarta
Nearest Transit
- MRT Setiabudi Astra
- TransJakarta Kuningan
How to Enter
01
02
03
Arrive at Erasmus Huis
Enter the library area
Register at the desk if you wish to borrow books
Tip:
Library access is free. Membership is only required for borrowing books.