Galway libraries receive over €115,000 in funding under Libraries Capital Programme

By Eva Osborne-Sherlock

Galway libraries have received over €115,000 in funding under the Government’s Libraries Capital Programme to provide new technology.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, announced €1.3 million in funding yesterday (4 November) for new computers, laptops, iPads and other communication technology in public libraries across the country.

Galway’s funding amount (€115,617.54) was second only to Co.Kerry’s at €122,051.60.

The Government said the Libraries Capital Programme will benefit communities across the country – with a particular focus on supporting young people, the elderly and the disadvantaged.

The Galway libraries set to benefit from the funding are:

• Athenry Public Library;
• Ballinasloe Public Library;
• Ballybane Public Library;
• Ballygar Public Library;
• Clifden Public Library;
• Dunmore Public Library;
• Eyrecourt Public Library;
• Galway City Library;
• Glenamaddy Library;
• Gort Public Library;
• Headford Public Library;
• Inishbofin Public Library;
• Killimor Public Library;
• Leabharlann an Spideil;
• Leabharlann Inis Meáin;
• Leabharlann Inis Mór;
• Leabharlann Inis Oirr;
• Leabharlann na Ceathrun Rua;
• Leenane Public Library;
• Letterfrack Library;
• Library Headquarters (Local History Section);
• Loughrea Public Library;
• Moylough Public Library;
• Oranmore Public Library;
• Oughterard Public Library;
• Portumna Public Library;
• Roundstone Public Library;
• Tuam Public Library;
• Westside Public Library;
• Woodford Public Library.

Replacing outdated systems

Commenting on the funding, Humphreys said it will enable public libraries to replace outdated PCs, laptops and iPads with new devices for the “benefit of library users of all ages”.

“This initiative is all about making our public libraries more accessible and digitally inclusive places. And I’m delighted that my Department is able to support libraries across the country with this latest tranche of funding,” she said.

“It is essential that our libraries are able to provide up-to-date ICT infrastructure because they play a critical role in helping to support digital inclusion, as well as providing literacy and technology skills training for those looking for work.

“It is also vital our libraries continue to support marginalised and disadvantaged communities to access government services.

“As Minister, I have had the privilege of visiting many libraries in recent months and I look forward to seeing first-hand the positive impact that this investment will have.”

‘The Library is The Place’

The funding announced yesterday will also support the new public library strategy, ‘The Library is The Place‘, which was launched by Humphreys in the new Portlaoise Library in July of this year.

The new strategy was developed by the Department of Rural and Community Development in partnership with the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), the County and City Management Association (CCMA) and local authorities.

It is a five-year plan for the period 2023-2027 that sets out the strategic context for further investment in library infrastructure, technology, programmes and services.

The Government said the new public library strategy aims to promote the vision of public libraries being leaders in enabling and supporting all people, across all communities, to be informed, connected and literate individuals.