La alfabetización informacional en bibliotecas públicas: situación actual y propuestas para una agenda de desarrollo

Abstract

Introduction. The purpose of this paper is to review information literacy developments in public libraries. Information literacy is outlined as a key competence of individuals whereby they know how to find and use the information neeed, regardless of place, mode and medium of transmission. Local and global trends in the introduction of this service into public libraries are analysed and the importance of this move is justified in connection with the lifelong learning agenda, for which public libraries are a basic resource in formal and informal education of citizens.. Method. Analysis and description of information literacy literature, conceptual models, projects, standards of professional associations, as well as of scientific and professional meetings about information literacy and public libraries. Analysis. Comparative study and critical assessment of different theories and projects, particularly as regards ractical aplications in libraries. Results. Based on analysis, trends in information literacy are described and priority tasks proposed for a development agenda for these services in public librarie. Conclusion. Proposal for a common information literacy agenda in all types of libraries, institutions and professions involved in the acquisition by individuals and communities of the key competences covered through lifelong literacy.