Appeared in literature in 1974, the Information Literacy binds the necessity to exercise the domain on the increasing informational universe. Incorporating abilities, knowledge and values related to the search, access, evaluation, organization and diffusion of information and knowledge, Information Literacy is the very essence of the Information Competence. The objective of this work is to define Information Literacy, starting with the understanding of the concept, relational objectives and practices, with emphasis on the educational role of libraries and the librarian. Initially a conceptual evolution is presented according to a historical reference. It also examines Information Literacy as knowledge, skills, and values internal process, connected to information and learning. It defines the expression, its characteristics and objectives. It discusses the different conceptions of Information Literacy, according to three references: information, knowledge and learning, enumerating relevant topics about Information Literacy Education with emphasis on the role of libraries and librarians. By exploring Information Literacy Education, the need of building up a new educational paradigm is pointed out in face of the current society that incorporates the information literacy.
Information literacy; Information competence; Learning library; Educational librarian; Learning society; Information skills
