Information Literacy and Lifelong Learning in Latin America: the challenge to build social sustainability

Abstract

The aim of this work is to explore information literacy and lifelong learning concepts in Latin America. First, we consider the Latin American challenges: inequalities, unstable politics, lack of formation of workers, poverty. Second, we discuss different concepts of society, focusing on the Learning Society, that requires emancipated individuals that are lifelong learners because they are information literate. The next section considers social sustainability as a consequence of sustainable development actions. In Latin America, interest around information literacy and lifelong learning has been growing in recent years because of librarians’ initiatives. In conclusion, information literacy and lifelong learning emerge as fundamental factors for a sustainable development and the consolidation of democracy in Latin America.