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Public Libraries

There are over 14 million visits to Irish public libraries annually. Libraries play an important community role as centres of knowledge, information and culture. As a result of the progress being made in public library service, quality of life is being is being improved and new opportunities for education, life-long learning, leisure and personal development have been opened through enhanced multi media and ICT services.

There are 353 branch libraries and 31 mobile libraries in Ireland. The library service is operated by 32 library authorities, which are generally city or county councils. You can access local library information via the city or counties council website, see links below.

The Department offers grant-aid towards the construction and refurbishment of public libraries, the computerisation of the library service and the purchase of library vehicles.

On 23 June 2008, Branching Out – Future Directions was launched. This new policy document will drive the development of the public library service in Ireland over the next five years.


An Chomhairle Leabharlanna (The Library Council) was established by the Public Libraries Act, 1947. The functions of the Council, as set out in the Local Government Act 2001 include:

  • The provision of advice, assistance and services to library authorities in relation to the public library service,
  • The making of such recommendations to and the provision of such services for the Minister in relation to the public library service as the Minister may request or as the Council sees fit,
    Action to promote and facilitate library co-operation.

An Chomhairle engages in a wide range of activites, most of which are detailed on their web site, see link below.

 

Links

Public Library Addresses

An Comhairle Leabharlanna Home Page

Trinity College Home Page

National Library Home Page

Library Portal Site

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Publications & Documents

News and Speeches

Legislation