About Us
What is Foreword
‘A room of one’s own’ for you to escape to other worlds, while clasping a cup and detached from worldly disruptions. Our team at Foreword aims to fill the lacuna in the hearts of readers all over Jakarta. We provide books picked up from all over the world, delicately loved, and carried home for your enjoyment. Not only do we showcase a thoughtfully curated selection, but we hope to offer a comfortable space to indulge in it, where you can chat and connect with kindred spirits.
Message From Our Co-Founder
“There’s a common preconception that readers are the solitude-seeking, misanthropic type, but
literature has always been my bridge toward people. Beyond the connections between characters
that can be scrutinized on the page, books can spark small talk and in-depth discussions; a
passage can be squealed over by friends on a beach or debated in a seminar.
With Foreword, I aspire to provide access to books that I’ve previously loved and provoke
conversation in the process: whether it be me chiming in to give a personalized recommendation,
or a book club gathering in our Tweens & Teens room to ponder over a novel.
I’ve met some of my best friends through Foreword, and I hope you will, too.”
Love, Nihlah
The Team
“Hi, I'm Nihlah, or Ila, a college student interested in the humanities. I have a perpetual love for words and and how they can capture and foster human connection.”
Look out for my book reviews displayed at Foreword, or reach out for a personalized recommendation!
Nihlah
Co-Founder & Lead Curator
“Hello! My name is Nishrin, I hope this library becomes a place where you feel comfortable and safe! I am interested in becoming the bridge that intersects passionate readers and differing communities where discussions and events will be held!”
Read "Why Fish Don't Exist", no further comments.
Nishrin
Co-Founder & Advisor
“Hello! As Foreword's librarian, I will be your guide in traversing our selection of curated books. Upon your visit here, feel free to spark a conversation with me as I'll be here everyday!”
I recommend reading Intan Paramaditha's "Sihir Perempuan"
Alyssa
Librarian
“Hello! I'm Olive, a lifelong reader who has always found solace and comfort in books. Starting as a Foreword Fellow, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this space can have. I hope Foreword can touch your life as profoundly as it has mine, and that you find a place in our community, however it may be.”
I never recommend the same book to everyone because I'd like to get to know your reading preferences first. So let's chat, and I'll suggest some titles that I think you'll love!
Olive
General Manager
“Hi, I'm Ilma ♥ I lead the creative and design ventures of Foreword — aiming to relay to you our vision, inspiration, and love for reading as wholeheartedly (and aesthetically) as possible. May all the worlds in our space and our pages inspire you!”
For beginners, read "The Book Thief" — so good you'd want to steal more books (not ours though)
Ilma
Creative Lead
“Hi, I'm Ilzan! Libraries are my safe havens and I hope the space our team created here could make you feel the same way. In our humble library, may you explore every corner of the world!”
I recommend reading "Factfulness" as the author, Hans Rosling, will forever be an idol of mine
Ilzan
Advisor