‘Take a Closer Look’: Ministers Calleary and Buttimer promote the National Public Libraries Open Day
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From: Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht
- Published on: 22 September 2025
- Last updated on: 22 September 2025
- Public libraries nationwide to host Open Day this Saturday, 27 September
- All services free: membership, borrowing, digital resources and more
- Special focus on welcoming teens, young adults, older people, and neurodiverse communities
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD and Minister of State with responsibility for Communities and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, are inviting everyone to visit their local library this Saturday, 27th September, for the National Public Libraries Open Day.
A wide array of events and activities will be held in libraries across the country, from creative workshops to story-times, book clubs, wellness sessions and more. This year, the campaign continues under the theme ‘Take a Closer Look’, highlighting the extensive range of library services available—far beyond books alone.
Promoting the National Public Libraries Open Day, Minister Dara Calleary said:
“Libraries are for everyone, at every stage of life. They equip us with the skills to navigate a changing world—from digital literacy workshops for young people to social spaces for older adults and support for people of all backgrounds and abilities.
“I want to thank our dedicated library staff for their passion and innovation. With over 330 branches nationwide, libraries are uniquely placed to support inclusion, learning and wellbeing in the communities they serve.”
Minister Buttimer added:
“National Public Libraries Open Day is about opening doors and minds. Libraries are vibrant hubs at the heart our communities—places for learning, creativity, and connection.
“Whether you’re a regular visitor or haven’t stepped into a library for years, I encourage you to discover what’s on offer this Saturday. From digital resources to sensory-friendly spaces, there truly is something for everyone.
“And remember, every library service is free—no membership fees, no fines, and no barriers.”
Sonya Kavanagh, Chair of the National Libraries Development Committee, said:
“Our Public libraries National Open Day is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on how libraries empower and inspire. As Chair of the LDC, I am proud to see libraries leading the way in supporting creativity, culture, and lifelong learning. This year, we’re especially focused on welcoming new members. Our doors are open, our staff are ready to help, and we can’t wait to welcome you in.”
Ireland’s public libraries offer free access to over 12 million items, including bestsellers, eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital newspapers and magazines, musical instruments, and much more. All core library services are free of charge, with no membership fees or late fines. Members can borrow, reserve, and return items at any library in the country. There are 330 library branches and 31 mobile libraries nationwide. In 2024, library membership saw an increase from the previous year with 789,041 registered members by year end with digital usage also continuing to grow.
Everyone is encouraged to join the national conversation using the hashtags #LibrariesOpenDay and #TakeACloserLook.
Notes
Public Library Service Overview
· Public library membership is free for everyone in Ireland. Join online or in person: Join your library
· Members can use any library service nationwide, borrowing and returning items at any branch.
· Library branches: 330 (including 55 My Open Library branches with extended opening hours)
· Mobile libraries: 31 (including cross-border service)
· Over 12 million items to borrow, 23,000+ eBooks, 17,000+ eAudiobooks, and access to 1,320 online newspapers and magazines
· Public library members in 2024 – 789,041
· Free Wi-Fi, computers, study spaces and a wide range of information to support people’s access to services, supports and education
- Musical instruments available in some branches
- Specialist play/sensory equipment and/or sensory rooms for people with autism spectrum disorder or dementia
- Over 600 e-learning courses at a variety of levels and a wide range of subjects
- Online courses in over 110 different languages for speakers of more than 30 languages
- For people from underrepresented communities, library services provide vital cost-free supports to assist them in overcoming difficulties.
- Through the reuse of books, hundreds of thousands of library members are practising environmental responsibility.
Public Library Strategy - ‘The Library is the Place’
The National Public Library Strategy, ‘The Library is the Place’ (2023–2027) was launched in July 2023 and was developed by the Department of Rural and Community Development & the Gaeltacht in partnership with the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), the County and City Management Association (CCMA) and local authorities. It is a 5-year plan for the period 2023-27 which sets out the strategic context for further investment in library infrastructure, technology, programmes and services.
The strategy was drafted following an extensive consultation process that included a public consultation which resulted in 2,993 returned questionnaires, focus groups with over 300 libraries staff members, further focus groups with key stakeholder groups and interviews and workshops with key interested parties.
Main points of the Public Library Strategy
The strategy contains three overarching themes – People, Spaces and Connections. 66 strategic actions have been listed under nine strategic objectives and three enablers.
Some of the specific actions underway are:
• New Libraries Capital Programme 2023-2027
• New library buildings to support local authority climate action plans
• Increased outreach library services such as mobile libraries and digital services
• Transition to hybrid, hydrogen or electric library vehicles
• Increased active library users and visitor numbers
• National “Skills for Life” umbrella programme covering issues such as digital skills, financial literacy, sustainable lifestyles and environmental awareness
• Freely accessible meeting study and social space
• New annual national public library open day
• Recommendations on new online infrastructure for access to cultural heritage and local history
• Implementation of professional development programme in partnership with Libraries Northern Ireland
• Development of network with European peer countries to share/exchange best practice
For more information on local Public Library Open Day events, contact your local library or visit www.librariesireland.ie.