ABOUT LIBRARIES IN GENERAL….

Public Libraries in Ireland are open to everyone. You do not have to be a member of the library if you just want to read something in the library, ask a question or consult a reference work (e.g. a telephone directory or a dictionary or an encyclopaedia). You will however, need to join the library if you want to borrow books or other items or, in most cases, if you want to use the Internet. There are differences in the services particular libraries provide, depending on the size and location of the branch and on the policies of the library service.

All public libraries provide books which can be borrowed by members of the library. All kinds of books can be borrowed, fiction (such as the latest bestseller or a classic novel) and non-fiction (such as history, biography, science, travel, self-help, etc.). In addition to standard books, libraries also have copies of many books in “large print” format, which are popular with readers with a visual impairment.

In most libraries there are Adult and Junior sections. Children up to a certain age use the Junior section only which provides books and other materials especially for children. Books for children of all ages, from babies up to teenagers are available in the Junior library.

If the book you want is already out on loan, you can reserve it by filling in a reservation form or placing a ‘hold’ on the item using the computerised library management system. The library staff or in some cases the system, will notify you when the book is available for you to borrow. If the library does not have the book you want, you can request it, again by filling in a form. The library may purchase the book or may look for a copy through the “inter-library loan” system. This is a system through which libraries in Ireland, the UK, and around the world, loan items to each other for the use of library members.

In addition to books, in most libraries you can borrow audio-books, which are recorded readings of books. Books of all kinds are available on recording and they come on both cassette tapes and compact discs. In many libraries you can borrow dvds, compact discs and cassettes of music. These range from popular chart music to traditional and classical music. Some libraries have selections of prints and paintings which can also be borrowed.

Public Libraries carry a range of journals and periodicals including national and local newspapers and magazines on a variety of topics. (e.g. business, health and lifestyle, gardening, science, nature, history.)

All public libraries have “reference” sections, containing books and other materials which can be consulted in the library. Reference sections typically include resources such as dictionaries, directories, encyclopaedias, government publications, business information, yearbooks and atlases. Some reference material, in particular business related material, is available on CD-ROM or over the Internet. Public Libraries can also provide contact details and information on the services provided by the county council or corporation and by government departments, including social welfare information, etc. Most libraries also hold a lot of local information about clubs and societies and events in their locality.

All public libraries collect materials about the history of their county or locality. There is a huge range of material available including county and parish histories, maps, photographs, drawings, old records, and newspapers. In some cases the main local history collection will be in the County Library so you should check this at your local branch. Library services are also using technology, digital archives and microfilm reader/printers, to improve these services, making it easier for users to locate interesting information from local and national collections.

All public library services now have computers which the public can use to access the Internet. In some cases you must be a member of the library to use the computers. Usually you will have to book a session in advance but you should check this in your local branch. Many libraries in Ireland now offer introductory sessions for new users; research and evaluate websites; provide online access to their library catalogues and other resources over the internet.

Many public libraries, particularly the larger ones, provide resources to enable users learn or follow a course of study themselves. These include language learning booths, computer based training materials and user education programmes. Ask for details at your local branch.