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Louth Library Service welcome funding for ICT in public libraries

Louth County Council have welcomed the announcement from Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, of a €1.3 million national fund for the provision of new computers, laptops, iPads and other information and communication technology in public libraries across the country.

The investment, under the Libraries Capital Programme, will assist libraries in becoming more digitally inclusive.

Louth Library Service will receive nearly €17,000 in funding for the provision of new laptops and notebooks.

Communities across the country are set to be benefit from the initiative – with a particular focus on supporting young people, the elderly and disadvantaged.

The funding will also support the new public library strategy, 'The Library Is the Place', which was launched by the Minister in the new Portlaoise Library in July.

The strategy promotes the vision of public libraries as leaders in enabling and supporting all people, across all communities, to be informed, connected, literate individuals, skilled for life. It also commits to support strategic actions to develop public libraries as enablers of digital services and facilitators of digital skills development while also recognising the importance of enhancing digital inclusion and providing up-todate ICT infrastructure.

A key strategic action is the development of a new national ‘Skills for Life’ umbrella programme which, it is intended, will be available through all library authorities by the end of 2024. This programme will support lifelong learning by helping people to improve their basic digital skills, media literacy and business and employment skills.

“This funding will enable us to replace outdated I.T. hardware with new devices for the benefit of library users of all ages. In supporting digital inclusion, we are providing literacy and technology skills training for those looking for work. As part of our Library of Sanctuary status it is   vital that we continue to support marginalised and disadvantaged communities to access digital services”, said Amanda Branigan, Acting Louth County Librarian.