A Biblioteca Pública como equipamento cultural do Estado: relações entre a cultura e as políticas públicas

Abstract

The article seeks to characterize the Public Library (BO) as a relevant socio-cultural equipment in the conduct of a civilizing and citizen culture, observing the social tensions and the demands of the most diverse groups regarding access to cultural goods, services and products, placing such institution as relevant to development and strong potential for profound social impacts. It brings reflections about the challenges historically faced, the paths for the configuration and execution of public policies, in addition to the problems resulting from the fluctuation and discontinuity of policies, programs and projects that affect or determine the ways in which BP operates. The role and power of these institutions are reaffirmed when it is realized that in most Brazilian municipalities, it is the only socio-cultural equipment in operation and with free access for the local population, playing the role of center of culture and coexistence.