A relação entre a leitura e a escolha do curso de biblioteconomia: análise dos estudantes da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of reading habits on the choice of the Librarianship course by students at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). The methodology applied was a quantitative and qualitative approach combined with the descriptive method. Data were collected through a questionnaire administered between November 11 and 29, 2024, via Google Forms, targeting both current and former students of the course. The collected data allowed for mapping students' reading profiles and investigating how these habits influence their academic expectations and decisions. The results indicated that reading plays a transformative and significant role in students' lives, influencing their academic and professional choices. Most participants reported that reading habits not only enrich theoretical knowledge but also develop critical and reflective skills essential for education in Librarianship. Among former students, 60% stated that reading had a direct influence on their choice of the course, demonstrating a clear correlation between engagement with reading and affinity with the goals and competencies of the field. The research faced limitations, such as a low response rate among current students, which restricted the analysis of this group. Nevertheless, the findings reinforce the importance of pedagogical strategies that encourage reading habits, contributing to a more comprehensive and effective education for future librarians. Reading practices emerge as an essential element in the academic and professional development of students, broadening their knowledge horizons and preparing them to face challenges and promote equitable access to information in society. Future research may explore this relationship further and identify barriers and strategies to promote reading habits among all students.