Abstract

Will the crisis affect libraries? Can we defend libraries in times of crisis? This paper argues that we can answer yes to both questions. The crisis will affect libraries and one form of influence would be that we come to believe that in these times of scarcity we cannot defend libraries against needs of higher priority. Professionals must communicate what libraries contribute to society and the cost-efficiency of modern libraries. This is the role of professional associations, professionals and libraries. Three reasons to strengthen libraries are outlined: they enable and enhance personal growth and support self-taught learning; are public places not based on consumption; and assist the poor and contribute to social inclusion.

Abstract

A 2007 survey and the views expressed by professionals active in the discussions generated by the Col·legi Oficial de Bibliotecaris-Documentalistes de Catalunya provide relevant data on the current profile and the demands of information and documentation professionals. A number of thoughts have emerged that led to the plan of action for the years 2007-2009. The most significant challenges that, according to the perception of the Col·legi, associations should consider in order to take an active role and reference in the current economic and social environment are also presented.

Abstract

Since March 2007, a group of information professionals from the autonomous region of Madrid has been working voluntarily and independently on the creation of a professional college for archivists, librarians and information scientists. However, it is necessary to present a bill at the region’s Parliament to be finally approved into law. This action developed as a reaction against the lack of an official organism to regularise this profession. The professional college will be in charge of representing and defending the profession and maintaining the relations with central and regional governments, the private sector, other professional colleges and universities.

Abstract

Deontological codes are a moral reflection centered on the duties and rights of a profession, which set the minimum moral standards required for its activity and which function as a self-regulating mechanism of professional praxis. This article analyzes the Public Relations codes of ethics of the public relations professional associations of Portugal and Spain to understand the common values that guide this activity. The purpose of the research was twofold: 1) to describe comparatively the public relations codes of ethics in force in the professional associations of two countries - Portugal and Spain; 2) to analyze and compare these codes following the global principles of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management. Through a qualitative comparative content analysis, guided by the Global Alliance’s 16 global principles, 7 core values were identified: (1) Working for the public interest; (2) Honesty, truth and fact-based communication; (3) Integrity; (4) Transparency; (5) Deal with the public with fairness and respect; (6) Behave in such a way as to magnify the profession; and (7) Act with professionalism. Although there are nuances in the regulatory framework of the local professional associations, there are global principles of practice that stand out and demonstrate the possibility of a global code of ethics for public relations.