Ana Maria Runkel Public Libraries in Portugal : The silent revolution

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In a study on a Library outside the capital (Oeiras – new library opened in 1996) it was possible to witness a surprising evolution at the level of users who look for Library services. At the level of institutional importance of library services, there has been an increase, which lifted the library from non-existence on functional organisation charts, to its establishment as a Division on the same level as other more traditional municipality sectors, such as sanitation, housing or planning. This situation allows to obtain a budget for the service, as well as the possibility of intervening/influencing strategic options. In short, the library is slowly gaining visibility, basic condition to be able to influence and emphasise the principles it is entrusted with. Likewise, this policy has had a multiplying effect at influencing the creation of somewhat similar programs, such as a line of action for the restructuring of Archives (1998) and a program for the establishment of a net of School Libraries (1997). The model adopted is similar, the Central government acting as a catalyst in the process of renewing these services. A program for the financing of the reconstruction/adaptation of space, equipment, furniture, documentation and computing system offers the local authority the possibility, to progress in the (re)building of these knowledge institutions.
When trying to briefly assess the situation of Public Libraries in Portugal in the year 2001, we can say that: Their strengths ... Strong commitment from the central government to create conditions for modernising public reading. Progressive sensitisation of politicians for the importance of investing in public reading libraries. Creation of services directed to the community (Information services to citizens, promotion of books and reading, training in the area of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), special services for babies, handicapped, socially excluded, elderly, minorities) Innovative and multiplying project at national level, with growing positive image in the media at national level, and the professional community at international level. Their weaknesses ... Too strong growth in launching the support program, fragility in the number of human resources available. Politicians interest based essentially upon “building construction”. Scattering of the investment aggravated by the lack of adequate resources to the development of these programs. Their opportunities ... Create a large group of professionals and develop training centres. Promote a campaign / lobby directed to politicians and the community in general, on the importance of public reading and its determining role in the Information Society. Creation of a national or regional plan for the co-operation among libraries/municipalities, outlining common strategies of action in the approach of problems which transversely affect the whole society. Their threats ... To compromise the efficient exploitation of existing material resources.
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Ana Maria Runkel Public Libraries in Portugal : The silent revolution

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