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

I thank the Deputy and absolutely agree with her. I am a big fan of the libraries just like she is. Her story about bringing her grandchild to the library is great to hear because the library is for everybody. It does not matter if you are young or old, there is something in the library for you. Libraries had the image years ago as slightly boring places, but that is long gone because they are hives of activity in our communities. It would do your heart good to go into one because there is something for everybody. There might be access to learning computer skills, high-speed Internet, computers and photocopying. There are loads of things in libraries, including book clubs. They also host heritage events. They have become important parts of our communities and I am very much about supporting them. A good deal of funding has been provided through the rural regeneration fund to upgrade old libraries and repurpose them for modern, 21st century use. I will continue to support our libraries across the country.

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