Peace Building Through Information Literacy in Libraries

In an age where misinformation and disinformation is rampant, it is difficult to know what information we are consuming is accurate and unbiased. Conflict feeds from misinformation and turns people against each other. Most recently, in Brazil, an insurrection occurred because of disinformation about the election. Stereotypes, hate speech, and other harmful rhetoric will continue to be pervasive until people are taught to think critically about the information they are consuming. In an academic setting, students learn how to identify reliable sources to use for their research. However, students may forget the information literacy tools they are taught once they leave school. As promoters of peace, librarians should discover ways to promote peace through information and media literacy. Librarians should incorporate critical pedagogy and peace education theory into their teaching styles. Students will be able to apply their information literacy skills from instruction to real world situations and spread peace.