Library catalogues and mediation. What role for catalogues in the 21st century?

The paper presents a reflection on the role of catalogues in contemporary reality. The analysis of catalogues as instruments of mediation between library collections and users is carried out starting from the birth of what is considered modern catalographic theory, in the mid-nineteenth century, and then focusing on the consequences of the advent of digital technology on catalogues and their role. The analysis focuses on some factors considered relevant, such as the increase in information and bibliographic resources, the differentiation of users, the presence of other mediating tools between users and information and resources. Finally, we would like to propose some reflections on the possible positioning of catalogues in the changed digital ecosystem.