O profissional bibliotecário no combate à desinformação no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia, IFPI

Abstract

The present research was developed at the Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciências e Tecnologia do Piauí (IFPI) Central, and addresses the role of the librarian in the contemporary context, focusing on information mediation and combating misinformation. Considering the relevance of information mediation in the current context, it recognizes the librarian's importance as a facilitator of access to and use of information, highlighting their essential role in society, especially in light of technological and social transformations that have changed how information is consumed and disseminated. The role of the librarian is emphasized not only as a manager of collections but also as a professional who guides the user in selecting, evaluating, and critically using information. In this context, information mediation involves an approach that goes beyond simply providing data; it is a process of social and cultural interactions aimed at ensuring individuals' autonomy and critical formation, particularly in a scenario marked by misinformation. Misinformation is addressed as a complex and growing phenomenon that goes beyond so-called "fake news," affecting opinion formation and social cohesion. Examples, such as the January 8, 2023, coup attempts in Brazil, are cited as evidence of misinformation's impact on political polarization. The librarian's role in this context is presented as essential for combating and minimizing this problem by providing the user with the tools necessary to evaluate sources and discern quality information. The research also emphasizes the importance of education and collaboration between librarians and educators to promote information literacy and critical citizenship. In this scenario, the librarian's role extends beyond information management, involving a commitment to the formation of more critical and informed citizens, capable of dealing with information in an ethical and responsible manner.