Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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94. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update on the long-term plans for the Drogheda library; if larger alternate sites are currently being considered for a future service provision; if so, if she will identify the potential premises earmarked in the town; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53407/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The provision of library services, including the provision of library buildings, is primarily a matter for local authorities in their capacity as library authorities under the Local Government Act 2001. Accordingly, the long-term plans for the public library service in Drogheda are first and foremost a matter for Louth County Council.

I am aware that Louth County Council provide a full time library service in Drogheda that has recently seen a 12% increase in its staffed opening hours, increasing to 51 hours per week. The past number of years has been a hugely positive time for Drogheda Library with considerable investment, numerous new initiatives, services and infrastructural upgrades taking place. The My Open Library service was officially launched in Drogheda Library earlier this month which will allow members to access the library on a self-service basis from 8am-10pm, seven days a week. My department has supported the delivery of this service by providing funding of €152,065.74.

I have been informed by Louth County Council that there are no plans at this point to relocate Drogheda Library from its Stockwell Street premises.