Extra funding for libraries announced

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Libraries in Kildare are to receive extra funding to support and encourage use by children, the elderly, people with disabilities and from marginalised and disadvantaged communities, writes Brian Byrne.

The €11,008 allocated to Kildare is part of €700,000 to be provided nationally from the 2022 Dormant Accounts Action Plan. It is in addition to over €3.1m announced recently for major expansion of the My Open Library scheme which offers extended open hours, using a mix of staffed and unstaffed self-service hours to registered users,

Under three elements to be implemented in the Kildare Library Service, students in DEIS schools will receive an introduction to fast fashion — what it is, what effect it has on our environment and society. Also a sensory cubby space will offer a safe space in Kildare libraries for all ages and in particular for those with autism, sensory difficulties, and dementia.  

In addition under a LOTE (Languages other Than English) programme, a two-year subscription will be available for digital book/audiobook resources in many languages with English translation. Titles in Ukrainian and Russian will be available to benefit refugees arriving into Kildare.

The funding has been welcomed by Kildare-based Minister of State Martin Heydon, who said that while the amount 'is small in nature, it will have a big impact' in terms of improving people's lives.

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