Information Resource Center launched for the public

Information Resource Center launched for the public

The U.S. Consulate General in Surabaya hosted the grand opening of its cultural, educational, and reference center, the IRC (Information Resource Center) that is open to the public for learning about American culture, history, society, and current events on July 24, 2012. The opening is also part of the Consulate’s annual Ramadhan program of buka puasa with community members. Guests include academics, educators, NGO leaders, and interested community members.
This center was built as part of an expansion of U.S. representation and programming in Eastern Indonesia as part of the development of the New Consulate facilities in Citra land that are set up to welcome more visitors and represent a deep commitment to developing U.S. - Indonesian relations. “We are ready to welcome you all here,” said Acting Consul General Erika Zeilke on the eve of the opening.  The Mission of the IRC is “To provide accurate and authoritative information on American policy, history, government, society and values as well as global issue of interests to Indonesian audience.”
The Surabaya IRC is one of two locations in Indonesia (the other is at the embassy in Jakarta) and serves as an educational platform for all things “America.”  It also works directly on programming with three of the 11 American corners across Indonesia – those in Makassar, Malang, and Surabaya. The center is open four days a week from 10am to 4pm for public visitors.  Potential visitors can contact the IRC directly by emailing the director simanullangCH@state.gov  / passurabaya@state.gov or calling the Consulate (+62-31) 297-5300 x5357 to learn about visiting. The center accommodates large groups and individual visitors. It will host weekly programs like films, cultural programs, discussion sessions, English conversation, and current events.  Information about programs can be found on the Consulate Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/surabaya.usconsulate).