The refusal of the head of the Santiago Public Library, currently under the administration of the Ministry of Culture (MiCultura), to provide basic information requested by this news outlet has raised concerns and questions about transparency and the fulfillment of public functions in the institution. The journalistic team attempted twice to do a report on the oldest books in this library, considered one of the main cultural centers in the region. However, it was not possible to get an official response from the director, Mariela García. According to the information provided, on a first visit, it was indicated that the official was attending a seminar. Subsequently, in a second attempt made days later, it was communicated that the director was using compensatory time. Nevertheless, upon establishing telephone contact, the official stated that she only responds to queries from her hierarchical superior, refusing to provide the required information. The situation has generated discomfort, as it involves public and cultural data that does not imply confidential or reserved information. Various sectors consider knowing the oldest books in the Santiago Public Library to be part of the historical and cultural interest of the community. Even an attempt was made to channel the query through government instances, including the Governorate of the province of Veraguas, led by Hildemarta Riera, without it being clearly defined to which authority corresponds to offer said information. This media outlet was able to learn that questions have arisen in the community about the supervision of the administrative functions of the library and the labor condition of the director, especially regarding versions that indicate previous links with other State entities, information that has not been officially confirmed. The Santiago Public Library plays a fundamental role as a pillar of culture, education, and historical memory of the province. Therefore, citizens and cultural managers hope that the authorities of the Ministry of Culture and other institutions will evaluate this situation and guarantee an open, respectful attention in accordance with the duties of any public official. Meanwhile, this medium will continue to follow up on the case, awaiting an official response that allows clarifying the facts and providing the citizenry with the requested information.
