RECIDA information resources guides: tools to promote reading and environmental education

Abstract

The resource guides developed by the Network of Environmental Information and Documentation Centres (RECIDA) constitute high-quality documentary products, highly useful for promoting reading, as well as for environmental education and awareness. This study examines 18 guides published between 2014 and 2025 using a methodology based on documentary analysis, supported by structural content analysis and descriptive statistics, with the aim of characterizing the guides produced by the network in terms of content, authorship, collaboration, and impact. The results show a significant increase in the production of guides starting in 2021, although with marked temporal asymmetry. There is high participation from RECIDA network centres and a predominance of females in authorships and responsibilities. Four main typologies are identified: technical-academic, educational, literary, or mixed guides, featuring a wide range of resources and thematic approaches (general or specialised). Moreover, most guides specialize in topics related to natural heritage or the interaction between humans and their environment. These guides are considered as relevant tools for facilitating access to reliable and relevant environmental information, useful to a variety of professionals.