Information literacy in historical perspective

from the American birth to Brazilian maturity

Abstract

This paper evaluates the emergence of information literacy through the history of its development by intellectuals in Librarianship. Through documentary research, it traces its origins within the context of unprecedented access to information and the use of new technologies. It presents American and Australian theorists who refined the concept, as well as official statements on the subject by professional associations and the United States government. The paper discusses the reception of the concept among Brazilian librarians and the facets it has acquired from them. It anticipates a new development of the concept, expanding to aspects of human life where the proper use of information is crucial, such as in financial issues.