Major investment in digital services and facilities at public libraries
THE Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, has announced a major investment package for digital services and facilities in public libraries.
The investment will enable ICT infrastructure upgrades, meeting space technologies and digital learning suites in public libraries across the country.
The €7.8 million investment comprises €5.2 million from Minister Ring’s department and a further €2.6 million contribution from local authorities.
The funding will enable the provision of digital learning suites for up to 300 public libraries this year.
It will support provision of: iPads/tablets/smart devices for users and for staff to assist users; computers and workstations including image deployment technology; software to support design, gaming and coding; meeting space technology; podcasting equipment and workstations; mobile LCD screens with audio; interactive whiteboards; and digital training suites.
Speaking at the announcement of the investment, Minister Ring said: “I am delighted to announce this major investment that will enhance the technological capacity across the library network and will further position our public libraries as an invaluable community resource.
“The funding will support a programme of ICT upgrades and developments to ensure libraries can provide a service that is not only in line with the needs of library users, but which can also deliver new and innovative services. It will develop digital learning centres and innovation centres, providing users with access to latest technologies and supporting library users who are not confident with technology.”
Today’s announcement follows on from the allocation of €3.4 million by the department in 2017 for self-service technology and hot-desking facilities in public libraries. “All of this will transform the facilities and services on offer in public libraries throughout Ireland,” Minister Ring stated. “This investment and the new strategy is focused on public libraries delivering a modern, progressive library service which connects and supports communities and individuals.
“It is an ambitious strategy which is aimed at increasing library membership and usage of our public libraries. It focuses on removing barriers to access by eliminating fines and other charges, and challenging the belief that the library is only for certain sectors of society.”