Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced funding of €1.3 million 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 our libraries in becoming more digitally inclusive.
Communities across the country are set to be benefit from the initiative – with a particular focus on supporting young people, our elderly and our 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.
Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said, “I am delighted to announce a further investment of €1.3 million in our public libraries. This funding will enable public libraries to replace outdated computers, laptops and iPads with new devices for the benefit of library users of all ages. This initiative is all about making our public libraries more accessible and digitally inclusive places. And I’m delighted that my Department is able to support libraries across the country with this latest tranche of funding.”
“It is essential that our libraries are able to provide up-to-date ICT infrastructure because they play a critical role in helping to support digital inclusion, as well as providing literacy and technology skills training for those looking for work. It is also vital our libraries continue to support marginalised and disadvantaged communities to access government services. As Minister, I have had the privilege of visiting many libraries in recent months and I look forward to seeing first-hand the positive impact that this investment will have.”
