Public libraries and development planning in Portugal.

The development of library services especially for the general public has become visible in the enormous growth in purpose built or re-designed library buildings in Portugal. A major role is played by the Public Library Programme, which is carried out by the Instituto Português do Livro e das Bibliotecas (IPLB). This nationwide library scheme connects with local authorities to create favourable circumstances for investment in library buildings and services. The paper describes how the programme has influenced the planning of services for the development of urban and rural communities. The indications and requirements set by the funding programme form incentives for local authorities to include library services and buildings in their local planning. Increasingly, they add extra functions to it, in order to strengthen the cultural and educational services. In this way literacy and lifelong learning of new user groups are supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]