Public libraries and their contribution towards economic development: A discussion

Abstract

This paper discusses the public library's role in society as a focal point for local economic development, adapted to the countries in the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR - composed of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay). It proposes a re-focussing of public libraries towards the idea of an information centre, to contribute towards local economic development by satisfying the information needs of citizens, small businesses, new entrepreneurs and community institutions. This new vision of the public library as an information centre creates greater links and integration between the public library and its local community. Public libraries and economic development would seem like an unlikely combination, especially in the Latin American context. However, what does seem more realistic is the setting up of an information service in public libraries to provide added value information; this will be of great importance in justifying the existence of the public library within its surroundings.