Information literacy in the workplace

perception of the public librarian

Abstract

 The theme of this dissertation is information literacy in the workplace. Using a survey as research method, the study’s principal objective is to investigate the public librarian’s perception and grasp of this concept and verify the role that he/she plays in implementing a training program in such competence. The study discusses conceptual aspects and the development of information competence. It reflects on the social and educational role of the librarians of public organs such as the Federal Judiciary, the Public Ministry of the Union and the Attorney General’s office. This study investigates the librarian’s knowledge of the subject and ways they could participate in the implementation of training so that the employees of the public organs develop information competence. Semi-formal questionnaires were used to obtain the data and were sent to 225 librarians working in these institutions, 78 of which filled out and returned the questionnaires. The data analyzed, the results revealed that the librarians were aware of or had heard of the subject but were unable to clearly explain the core concepts of information competence although some elements of the theme were mentioned. The study’s subjects mentioned the need of acquiring certain skills in order to inform employees, administration and other librarians of the importance of information competence in public organs. The librarians understood that the challenge to assume this role of understanding and disseminating information competence was theirs. Adequately prepared, the library must work together with other public organs and internal units such as human resources to implement specific information competence training programs. The librarians expressed confidence that employees in the public sector would indeed participate in such programs and pointed out the benefits achieved and obstacles to be overcome as a result of these training programs.