Public policies for information literacy in Portugal: An agenda in the making

Abstract

This theoretical study seeks to contribute to the reflection on public policies in the field of information literacy in Portugal. For this purpose, we look at the status quo of how information literacy has been addressed in Portugal, discussing the aspects concerning public policies, which include an interconnection between scientific knowledge and public action. So, the main objective is to describe Public Policies for Information Literacy in Portugal. Public policies usually result from a sustained effort which places a certain topic on the social agenda. This public action agenda seeks to draw the attention of society and obtain the support of influential groups or people and politics of different levels of the government. At the same time, we look at the way scientific knowledge gives rise to legislation, guidelines or policy recommendations. Finally, we propose a series of lines for reflection and debate on this matter.