Social functions of library journalism and their role in the development of the library sector

The study explored the social functions of library journalism and their role in the development of the library sector, which was relevant in the context of the modern information-driven society. Libraries perform a much broader function than just preserving knowledge, serving as socio-cultural centres that promote access to information, support cultural development, and facilitate communication between different social groups. The study aimed to identify and analyse the main social functions of library journalism, and their impact on the formation of an informed society, as well as to determine the main directions of library transformation in the digital age. To achieve this goal, the following methods were applied: аnalysis of the research results, аbstraction and specification, sіstematisation, and іdentification of cause-and-effect relationships. The conclusions emphasised the importance of libraries as centres of social influence, which not only promote access to knowledge, but also support interactive and innovative forms of interaction with the audience, stimulate interest in learning, and ensure convenient access to information resources necessary for the development of both the individual and society. The study results indicated that library journalism fulfils important social functions, enhancing the role of libraries as cultural, educational, and informational centres. The informational, educational, communicative, promotional, and cultural-educational functions contributed to the promotion of reading, the preservation of cultural traditions, and the formation of a positive public image of libraries. In the context of digitalisation, libraries actively adapted by leveraging social media, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics to personalise services and meet user needs. Educational activities foster critical thinking, and information literacy, and reduce information inequality. The practical value of the research lies in the possibility of applying its results to optimise library communication strategies, allowing libraries to effectively fulfil their social functions