Tecnologías de la información y comunicación, competencia en información e inclusión social en la biblioteca pública: un estudio en la Biblioteca Parque de Manguinhos

Abstract

This study addresses the topic of information literacy using information and communication technologies (ICTs) in public libraries taking into account a citizen/user's training and librarians' roles. Another topic highlighted in this study is a public library-local community relation focusing on new trends in literature regarding this relation. The empirical study focused on a recent experience in the city of Rio de Janeiro – at Biblioteca Parque de Manguinhos Library Park –, which provides service to neighborhoods characterized by high rates of poverty and of violence. We interviewed directors and librarians, and administered a questionnaire to users. Data analyses show that users are greatly interested in using Internet. Data reveal that some of the Library's initiatives seem to be contributing to developing users' information competence and strengthening community-library bonds. However, data also indicates that some types of users' demands are not being considered. Likewise, data suggests that the community's participation in the library could be intensified or diversified.

Keywords

• public library
• information and communication technology
• information literacy
• community and public library