University libraries in a historical perspective: on the way to sustainable development

ABSTRACT

It shows the evolution of university libraries as secular institutions, which evolution occurs from the bibliographic growth and the emergence of the first universities in the Middle Ages. The objective of this paper is to understand the evolution of university libraries in a historical perspective in order to identify its specific characteristics, its agents and devices adopted by these institutions that promote knowledge. It used bibliographic and documentary research to develop the article and discussion of the topic. Knowing this historical route allows the apprehension of the first traces of university libraries and their evolution, their mishaps and challenges, as well as places the role of information professionals in the conduct of mediation activities and information ownership in connection with the training of individuals not only competent in information, but able to exercise their social role.

Keywords:
University library; Librarianship; Professional information.