Search

The article studies the way in which public libraries communicate their activity to the environment. The objective is to clarify what channels and media are used, what is communicated -content of the communication-, when this communication is carried out and the management of the process. The data protection of the users of the library is partially treated. A double approach, theoretical and practical, is made to achieve the objectives. The practical one is carried out through a survey of public libraries in the Region of Murcia. It is estimated that the sample is representative of the average reality of these centers in the Spanish environment. The treatment of the results is more qualitative than quantitative. The need to plan communication is concluded. Likewise, libraries should expand the variety of their communication channels and improve this with opinion leaders and stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is based on two qualitative techniques applied to further understand the levels of digital risk or empowerment of vulnerable users visiting Murcia Regional Library. Library users and staff, social workers, and the three most recent library managers were interviewed; participatory observation was applied. We studied the exclusion factors of users, their motivation for using library services, and their information and digital competencies. We conclude that these persons use the library primarily as a center for both leisure and media Internet purposes and also occasionally to study or job search. Nevertheless, and above all, they value the library as a comfortable, normalized, and inclusive space, in which they feel integrated and where, without limits, they can stay for leisure or practical purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]