Book your view of libraries for the future

IRELAND'S libraries have provided an essential service for the country for decades, often giving children and adults alike a love of reading for life.

- BY KEITH FALKINER

However, they're about so much more than just books, and are now often at the centre of community life.

Ahead of National Public Libraries open day on Saturday, Libraries Ireland is giving a focus to what they offer teenagers in the fast-paced modern world.

In Dublin, North Clondalkin Library Youth Club was set up in January 2024 to help deal with antisocial behaviour in the library in the evenings.

It has transformed in to a group of children aged 10 to 14 who dedicate an hour every week to trying out different sports.

VOLUNTEER

They meet weekly at the library and walk to Collinstown sports centre with Andre Roode, the library attendant, and Audrey, a local parent and volunteer.

One young user said: "The Youth Club provides a great opportunity for children from the area to develop personal skills including communication and teamwork.

"It's a chance to build confidence and try out something new that otherwise they might not have an opportunity to do."

Meanwhile in Monaghan, the county library is working on a European project, named FUTU4U, that aims to help young adults get involved in the democratic process and have their voices heard.