Consolidação de uma tipologia para as bibliotecas dos Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia: especificidades institucionais, finalidades e funções

Abstract

The study analyzed the typological framework of the libraries of the Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia (IF), considering their institutional and educational specificities. The general objective was to identify the characteristics that define these libraries in terms of their purpose, nature, and function, advocating for the consolidation of a typology consistent with their complexity. The specific objectives were: to examine how the Federal Institutes were conceived within the context of education in Brazil; to conceptually discuss the classification of these libraries regarding their purpose, nature, and function; and to identify, through interviews, questionnaires, and documentary analysis of regulations and institutional plans, the role of libraries in the Federal Institutes, including their origins, objectives, and values. The methodology involved a literature review and a multiple case study in five Library Systems, representative of the five Brazilian regions. Data collection instruments included semi-structured interviews with pro-rectors and library system coordinators, an electronic questionnaire directed to librarians, and documentary analysis of regulations and institutional plans of the Federal Institutes studied. The approach adopted for data analysis was both qualitative and quantitative (mixed-method). The findings revealed challenges such as serving diverse audiences, adapting collections to informational demands, and the limited institutional recognition of libraries. The study concludes that the “Multilevel Library” typology more coherently reflects the complex nature of these information units, as it encompasses the articulation between integrated technical secondary education, technical and higher education, while also engaging in research, outreach, innovation, and, in some cases, community services. Based on these findings, the “Multilevel Library” typology is consolidated as a theoretical-methodological proposal applicable to the context of the Federal Institutes. Its adoption is recommended to support public policies, funding, continuing education, and the strengthening of the Integrated Library Systems of the IF.