Knowledge management, trends and innovations from the perspective of Brazilian university libraries

Abstract

The objective of this article is to recognize how Knowledge Management tools and practices are used in University Libraries, as well as innovations and perspectives for the future of libraries, from the perspective of University Libraries considered reference in Brazil. The qualitative approach was chosen to develop the descriptive-exploratory study. For data collection, three interviews were conducted with librarians working in three great Brazilian University Libraries, selected from the Folha University Ranking. Content analysis was used to process the data. The results reveal that the joint use of tools and practices that promote Knowledge Management is rooted in the routines of the participating libraries. The recognition of the role of people, the strengthening of the user-library link and the democratization of knowledge were evident. Innovative practices are developed by participating libraries and have contributed to leveraging their potential. There is space for improvement, especially regarding the improvement and incorporation of technologies. The libraries of the future should provide environments for interaction, exchange and creation, in spaces increasingly focused on digital. Knowledge Management supports the need for flexibility, innovation and speed for libraries to adapt to changes, whether they are foreseen or unforeseen.