Librarian activity and the formation of information competence in users of university libraries

an exploratory study in the Northeast Region

Abstract

This research aimed to describe the librarian's role in developing the information competence of users of public libraries linked to federal higher education institutions in the Brazilian Northeast. This is a qualitative research, regarding the approach, this research is classified as descriptive and exploratory. Data collection took place through semi-structured interviews and data analysis was carried out using the language pragmatics method. The reports showed that librarianship is more reactive to the demands of the internal and external community. Information about library products and services is displayed on websites and social networks and, only when requested, training actions are carried out with users. It was also reported the need for the development, by educational institutions, of a continuing training program to improve librarians' knowledge of digital technologies. It is concluded that library work goes beyond providing information, but also training users to search, interpret and evaluate information in an ethical and efficient way. Faced with a scenario of significant increase in the publication of information, helping to identify reliable information and misinformation reinforces conscious social participation in the construction of knowledge.