Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. The Department leads on the implementation of the public library strategy, Our Public Libraries 2022, which aims to improve access to, use and visibility of the library as a community hub and a focal point for cultural development. In 2020 alone my Department has allocated over €8 million to support public library services. This includes the libraries capital programme, which will invest some €29 million in 18 projects and in the My Open Library service over the next few years. The programme has six completed projects and five more under construction. The My Open Library service, which in normal circumstances allows access to the library on a self-service basis from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., 365 days per year, is available in 19 branches and is under development in a further 49 branches. In addition to this, nine new libraries are being funded through my Department's rural regeneration and development fund. Earlier this year almost €700,000 was approved to support the provision of sensory facilities and equipment in libraries and last month I approved over €713,000 for the provision of library supports for marginalised, socially excluded and disadvantaged communities.

I have also provided significant funding to public libraries during the Covid-19 pandemic. In September I approved €3 million for a small-scale capital works programme that will help adapt libraries to facilitate social distancing and other measures in order to comply with Covid-19 guidelines. My Department also provided funding of €400,000 to support the provision of additional online ebooks and e-audiobooks.

Libraries the length and breadth of the country are doing an absolutely wonderful job. There are so many more people using their local libraries, which is really encouraging. I compliment the staff in every single library. They really are a credit to us all in the great service they provide. Libraries are innovating, adapting and evolving and my Department is delighted to support them on this.

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