Louth Library Service joins National Public Libraries Open Day 2024

Louth County Council are celebrating the positive impact of library services during National Public Libraries Open Day 2024 on Saturday, 28th September. 

Louth Library Service will be joining 300+ branches nationwide to promote the role of public libraries in Irish society, raise awareness of the range of services they provide, and encourage people to become members. 

To coincide with National Public Libraries Open Day, the Take a Closer Look campaign is encouraging people to see first-hand the wide-ranging free services open to them through their libraries.  

Amanda Branigan, Acting County Librarian, explained, “National Public Libraries Open Day provides a unique opportunity for us to promote library services and celebrate their role in Irish life. We continue to fulfil an integral role in Irish life and, as their importance has continued to grow, the services we provide have expanded to meet the needs of individual members and broader society. Libraries help people to go on literary and recreational journeys, to use their imagination and unwind. The broad-ranging events that we host interest people across communities and bring people together. We also play a particularly important role in supporting people access services such as technology and educational supports to help them in their life.” 

Louth Library Service received praise in the recently published Local Authority Performance Indicators Report 2023 under the National Oversight and Audit Commission. An increase in opening hours in Dundalk & Drogheda libraries, with six-day opening and four late nights, has resulted in a rising trajectory in members, visitors, and issues figures. Louth is one of the few local authorities in the country which has continued to operate a school service following the removal of the Department of Education grant. Louth was the first local authority to awarded ‘Library of Sanctuary’ status recognising inclusion within the community. Louth Library Service also boasts two My Open Library services in Drogheda and Ardee branches, which allows access from 8am-10pm, 7 days a week.

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Some of the resources available to access in Louth Library Service include ‘The Cubbie’ in Dundalk Library which is an immersive multi-sensory space that helps regulate sensory stress, reduce anxiety and encourages participation. 

C-Pens are available to borrow from all Louth branches. These pens scan and then read text aloud to assist with independent reading. The Tovertafel Magic Table is available for groups and families to book which aims to stimulate movement, create a shared experience and enhance emotional wellbeing with a range of games and activities aimed at those with sensory issues. 

The award-winning ‘Housebound Delivery Service’ continues offering a book delivery service for those who may not be able to visit a library in person. Library members can arrange a delivery of library books right to their door.

Library membership is free with no fines or any barrier to access, with over 12 million items available to borrow. Everyone is invited to call into their local library in Dundalk, Drogheda, Ardee, Dunleer and Carlingford on National Public Libraries Day, Saturday 28th September.