Libraries 'integral within our villages, towns and cities'

By Finnian Cox

The importance of Cork’s public libraries will be emphasised as a part of National Public Libraries Open Day this weekend.

Libraries Ireland are inviting the public to take a closer look at their local libraries, who will be demonstrating the services and events that they offer.

Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) Dr Stuart Hamilton commented on the important role libraries play in society: “Irish public libraries have a proud and long-standing history of being integral within our villages, towns and cities in supporting people on an individual and a collective, community basis.”

He said that their importance in society has “continued to grow”, adding that services provided by libraries have “expanded to meet the needs of individual members and broader society.”

As well as bringing focus to the services provided by public libraries, the day aims to encourage people who might not use them to get into the habit of visiting more often.

Emphasis has also been placed on the importance of the local librarian and the role they play in the community, acting as an information point.

Dr Hamilton described how librarians know “groups working to support learning, develop skills, support jobs seekers and those with special needs,” describing them as connectors within the community”.

Anna Marie Delaney, Chair of the National Libraries Development Committee, welcomed the announcement.

She described libraries as “vibrant, inclusive community hubs providing all sorts of events and activities.”

One such example is the book club launched in August, which saw Cork County Council’s library and arts service establishing book clubs in nursing homes and day care centres around the county.

The county council currently supplies books for 75 clubs around the county, the majority of which meet in a local branch library.

It also supplies books for 70 children’s clubs.

Local libraries have also been used to hold talks on topics such as health and local history, as well as providing a place for craft groups to meet.

Library membership is free and provides access to information for recreational and study purposes, as well as providing access to online resources.

National Public Libraries Open Day takes place on Saturday 28 September.