From Department of Rural and Community Development
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Mr Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development , is delighted to announce that following on from the very successful libraries promotion campaign public libraries will be holding a National Open Day on leap year day, 29 February. The aim of the National Library Open Day is to increase awareness of the library services and all they have to offer.
The Minister commented :
“We have so few spaces where you can spend time without needing to spend money. Libraries no longer charge membership fees or fines for late returns. This is crucially important to ensure that our libraries are a free and welcoming space for all. They are also very important to help level the playing field for children who may not have the same access to educational material as others. Education plays a central role in lifting people out of poverty. That is why we have free access for all to the library services and facilities. I would encourage everyone who hasn’t been to their library recently to visit and see what an array of facilities and services it now offers.”
The Minister added :
“Our libraries help build communities and harness their potential. They are essential community facilities providing vital resources full of engagement, knowledge and inspiration.”
On the 29th February libraries around the country will be hosting events to welcome one and all and library staff will be on hand to showcase what is on offer.
The events to mark public libraries National Open Day include -
Tom Enright, Chair of the National Libraries Development Committee encouraged everyone to come along to their local library on February 29th, saying :
“Whether you want to borrow books, use the internet, make use of digital equipment, enjoy the community space and wide range of activities, or you would prefer to download an audiobook, eBook, or online newspaper to your device, it is all available to you completely free with your library membership. Come along on Saturday, February 29th to find out how to make the most of your library.”
The Minister concluded :
“It never ceases to amaze me what is now on offer in our libraries – digital learning suites, creative studios with recording and filming facilities, musical instruments lending, leading edge technology and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) workshops, coding classes, sensory libraries for children with autism, community meeting spaces, study desks, e-working facilities, free wifi, 3D printing and of course the most important element a wonderful array of books.”
A full list of the libraries which are open and hosting events on the 29th February can be found on the Department’s website at here
Public Library Service Overview
The public library service is local service with a national reach – members can use all library services, including borrowing and returning items at any library in the country. The national public library catalogue is supported by a nationwide delivery service – items can be ordered online or in person and delivered quickly to the local library.
The public libraries provide -