National Public Libraries Open Day
Check out your local library on Saturday, September 26th and ‘Take a Closer Look’ at what's on offer.
National Public Libraries Open Day takes place on Saturday 26 September 2026, inviting people across Ireland to visit their local library, discover the benefits of free membership and take a closer look at everything their library has to offer.
Library membership is free and gives you access to a wide range of services and opportunities, from books, eBooks and audiobooks to learning resources, events, creative activities, online courses, language-learning resources, public computers and Wi-Fi, and welcoming spaces in your community.
If you are not yet a member, Open Day is the perfect opportunity to visit your local library, meet the staff, explore the services available and find out how to join. If you are already a member, come along and discover something new, including services and resources you may not have used before.
Libraries across Ireland will host events, activities, demonstrations and exhibitions for people of all ages, highlighting the many ways libraries support reading, learning, creativity, wellbeing and community connection.
Everyone is welcome and library membership is free.
Can’t make it on Saturday 26 September? You can still join your local library online and start exploring the resources and services available through Ireland’s public library network.
Discover the benefits of library membership
With free library membership, you can:
- Borrow from and return items to any public library branch in Ireland.
- Explore millions of items, including books, eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers, magazines and online resources.
- Use online learning and language-learning resources.
- Access free Wi-Fi, public computers, study spaces and digital supports in many libraries.
- Take part in reading programmes, book clubs, talks, workshops, exhibitions and community events.
- Access services supporting literacy, creativity, wellbeing, employment, business development and lifelong learning.
- Discover services and programmes for children and families, including storytimes, reading activities and dedicated children’s spaces.
- Access inclusive facilities and services available for people with disabilities in many library branches.
- Enjoy greater flexibility through My Open Library extended opening hours, where available.
- Borrow without worrying about overdue fines, as public libraries do not charge fines for late returns.
Visit your local library on Saturday 26 September 2026, take a closer look at what is available and discover what free library membership can offer you.
Join your library today.
Your Library. Take a Closer Look.
Public libraries are one of Ireland's most valuable free public services. Through library membership, people can borrow books, eBooks and audiobooks, access learning and digital resources, attend events and connect with services that support lifelong learning and wellbeing.
National Public Libraries Open Day is an opportunity for everyone to discover what their local library has to offer. Whether you're already a member or have never joined before, I encourage you to visit your library, take a closer look and see how membership can benefit you and your family.
I want to thank our dedicated library staff for their continued commitment to serving communities across the country.
National Public Libraries Open Day is a chance to discover the wide range of benefits that come with free library membership. Libraries offer far more than books. Members can access eBooks, audiobooks, online learning, digital resources, study and workspaces, community programmes, and activities for all ages. Whether you're joining for the first time or you’re rejoining, there's never been a better time to become a member. I encourage everyone to visit their local library and discover everything that free membership has to offer. I want to thank our dedicated public library staff for their continued commitment to serving communities across the country
Public libraries provide free access to books, information, learning opportunities, cultural experiences and community connections that enrich people's lives every day.
National Public Libraries Open Day is about helping people discover the full value of library membership. We want to welcome new members, reconnect with former users and showcase the many services available through libraries across the country.
Our staff are looking forward to opening their doors, answering questions and helping people make the most of everything their library has to offer.
We encourage everyone to take the opportunity to visit their local library and discover the wide range of services, resources and opportunities available through free library membership.
