National Public Libraries Open Day
Check out your local library on Saturday, September 27th and ‘Take a Closer Look’ at what's on offer.
On Saturday, September 27th, we are celebrating the valuable work of Public Libraries in Ireland and inviting you to 'Take a Closer Look' at your local library. On this day, libraries will be demonstrating some of the wonderful events and services that they offer and everyone is welcome to come in and get involved.
If you can’t make it into the library on the day, consider joining your local library service online—membership is free for anyone living in Ireland and gives you access to a wide range of resources and services.
- Library membership is free and open to everyone living in Ireland.
- Public libraries no longer charge overdue fines on late returns.
- Many branches offer accessible facilities and services for people with disabilities.
- As a library member, you can use any public library nationwide, borrowing and returning items at any branch.
- With over 330 library branches across Ireland, including 55 My Open Library branches offering extended opening hours, it’s easy to find a library near you. Find your local branch here
- Explore a collection of over 12 million items, including eBooks, audiobooks and digital newspapers and magazines. You can even search the catalogue online
- Many branches offer free Wi-Fi, computers, and study spaces, along with a wealth of information to support your access to services, supports, and education.
- Discover over 600 e-learning courses at a variety of levels, covering a wide range of subjects.
- Public libraries also provide online language courses in over 110 different languages, supporting speakers of more than 30 languages.
- For people from underrepresented communities, library services offer vital, cost-free supports to help overcome barriers, including business and employment support, health information and literacy support.
- Many libraries also have dedicated children’s areas, storytime sessions, and parenting resources.
- Hundreds of thousands of library members are practising environmental responsibility through book reuse.
Your Library - Take a Closer Look!
Libraries are for everyone, at every stage of life. They equip us with the skills to navigate a changing world—from digital literacy workshops for young people to social spaces for older adults and support for people of all backgrounds and abilities.
I want to thank our dedicated library staff for their passion and innovation. With over 330 branches nationwide, libraries are uniquely placed to support inclusion, learning and wellbeing in the communities they serve.
National Public Libraries Open Day is about opening doors and minds. Libraries are vibrant hubs at the heart our communities—places for learning, creativity, and connection.
Whether you’re a regular visitor or haven’t stepped into a library for years, I encourage you to discover what’s on offer this Saturday. From digital resources to sensory-friendly spaces, there truly is something for everyone.
And remember, every library service is free—no membership fees, no fines, and no barriers.
Our Public libraries National Open Day is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on how libraries empower and inspire. As Chair of the LDC, I am proud to see libraries leading the way in supporting creativity, culture, and lifelong learning. This year, we’re especially focused on welcoming new members. Our doors are open, our staff are ready to help, and we can’t wait to welcome you in.
