Iranian public libraries’ capacities in preserving and disseminating intangible cultural heritage

Abstract

Since public libraries in Iran have a rich and strong intangible cultural heritage, it is important to study the capacities of these libraries. For this purpose, the method implemented for the study was the Delphi technique. The population of the study consisted of 30 experts and researchers who were selected through targeted sampling. Based on the findings of this study, the roles of Iranian public libraries were the provision of intangible cultural heritage by collecting from local areas, holding public exhibitions and re-narration of intangible cultural heritage. This study further emphasizes the application of intellectual property rights and provision of infrastructure of information technology by Iranian public libraries for the preservation and dissemination of intangible cultural heritage. Concerning research findings, Iranian public libraries are considered one of the knowledge cultural centers for diversity within society that, through preservation and dissemination of intangible cultural heritage, could play a significant role in promotion of the individual’s awareness.