Public Libraries Fighting Disinformation: An Analysis of Knowledge, Resources, and Actions of Portuguese Librarians

The disinformation fight is global and urgent, making it relevant to train librarians from all walks of life so that they can use its multiplier effect in training strategies for users. In the case of public libraries in Portugal, the actions developed in this regard are unknown. This exploratory study aims to better understand the level of knowledge, practices, and resources available in Portuguese public libraries to combat misinformation. To this end, a questionnaire was created and launched at public libraries in Portugal. The results show a consistent knowledge of librarians on the subject, but still incipient actions to combat disinformation, which anticipates the pressing need to carry out more targeted training for these professionals, as well as to provide pedagogical resources and strategies to encourage learning among populations, which can contribute to achieving a culture of more attentive, integrated and critical citizens.