Public libraries, cultural heritage and government action: possible interlocutions

Introduction: The present work addresses the historical trajectory of the concept of cultural heritage, discusses the processes of institutionalization of heritage in the light of contemporary theorists in the area and emphasizes the role of public libraries as cultural and heritage institutions and their impact on the construction of a society more fair and egalitarian. Objective: the research sought to highlight the multifaceted relationship between public libraries, cultural heritage and government action, observing how these three elements interconnect and influence each other. Methodology: with a qualitative approach, the research was based on a narrative literature review on the topic in question. Results: based on news published in the media about the dismantling of libraries and taking into account the relationships that exist between the institutionalization of cultural heritage and government action, it is concluded that public libraries are part of a set of entities responsible for safeguarding a portion significant part of national culture, are susceptible to government changes in terms of their management and maintenance, and can be used as instruments for the implementation of political, economic and social ideals, supporting governance strategies. Conclusion: based on the research results, it is necessary to: 1) create legal mechanisms to protect public libraries, establishing responsibilities for decisions that affect the fate of collections and libraries; 2) definition, via legislation, of what constitutes Brazilian documentary heritage, highlighting the importance of public libraries in its preservation and maintenance.