Theoretical approaches to information and communication support in public libraries network

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to study the theoretical approaches to information and communication support in the network of public libraries. The research methodology is based on the general scientific methods of studying social phenomena and processes (namely, analysis, synthesis, typologisation, extrapolation, abstraction, forecasting, generalisation, as well as the methods of systemic, comparative, and structural-functional analyses). The usage of these methods enables outlining the current trends of forming information and communication support of public libraries taking into account modern technological development and user demands. The scientific novelty of the paper consists in expanding the theoretical aspects of public libraries development based on contemporary trends of information and communication support. Conclusions. Information and communication technologies have significantly affected the life of modern society, changing the approaches to the development of public libraries sphere and shaping the existing trends in library services provision. Currently, the development of librarianship presupposes digitilisation of cultural and scientific heritage, the elaboration of electronic catalogues and collections, as well as the transition to remote work in virtual space. It has been established that against the backdrop of society digital transformation, a client-oriented approach is indispensable in setting the goals of information and communication support, taking into account the users’ interests, focused on identifying their needs and providing the relevant library services. Further innovative and technical development of library equipment aimed to increase its relevance in modern society is deemed important. Public libraries should expand information and communication support to provide a wide range of enhanced services to users, mastering new functions that allow providing society with relevant, high-quality information, extensive remote access possibilities, development of media and information literacy, and an individual’s cultural identity formation based on communicative practices.

Keywords: public library, information and communication support, innovative technologies, information services.