Libraries as Spaces for Digital Hygiene: Their Role in Shaping Critical Thinking and Media Literacy

Abstract

The article looks at how libraries can help people learn to think critically and be more aware of what they see on the internet, as society becomes more digital. The study looks at how libraries are communicating with people online and identifies new ways to get the public more interested in media. The research uses a variety of methods. These include looking at academic literature to study the theoretical foundations of digital hygiene and media literacy. The research also includes analysing content to examine programmes, activities and resources implemented by libraries. The research uses sociological surveys to assess the perception of libraries as spaces of digital security. The research also uses comparative and case study methods to investigate successful international and Ukrainian experiences. The results show that libraries are changing. They used to be places where people went to find books and other materials. Now, they are becoming places where people can talk to each other, learn, and work together on projects. They teach people how to use digital technology and help them to use information safely. The article suggests a way of classifying new models of library communication, including interactive-educational, partnership-network, club-discussion, digital-interactive, and creative-participatory models. The study highlights the practical significance of Ukrainian libraries’ experience in implementing media education programs, organizing trainings and workshops, and building partnerships with civil society organizations. The conclusions emphasize that libraries play a key role in the development of citizens’ information culture, contribute to countering disinformation, and support the formation of a conscious and responsible information user in the digital environment. JEL: D83; I21; L86; Z18