€8.5m funding for library scheme

A development package worth €8.5 million has been approved for the country's libraries.

The Capital Programme for Public Libraries 2009-2010 will contribute towards the development and refurbishment of a range of public libraries throughout the country and will create 100 jobs, according to the Department of Environment.

Libraries attracted more than 14 million visits in 2008 and  today's announcement will see €8.5 million provided this year for the development and refurbishment of several libraries across the country and the provision of a mobile library in Galway.

A number of other projects which are already underway will also receive funding towards completion.

A spokesman for the Department of the Environment said the €8.5 million would be spent on projects commencing in 2009.

Subject to public finances being available in 2010, libraries in Carlingford, Co Louth; Wexford Town; Bettystown, Co Meath; Roscommon Town; Ballymahon, Co Longford; Mhuinebeag, Co Carlow and Swinford, Co Mayo will also receive grant aid.

Minister of State Tom Kitt said the funding "demonstrates continuing commitment by the Government to the public library service despite the current challenges being faced by the public finances."

The libraries that will get money for refurbishment in 2009 are in Borris, Co Carlow; Ballymote, Co Sligo; Kilmallock, Co Limerick; Tuam, Co Galway; Mobile Library for Galway County Library Service; Mullingar, Co Westmeath; Carrickpherish, Waterford City; and Ballyfermot Branch Library in Dublin City.

In addition, a number of projects underway will get funding towards completion including Greystones, Co Wicklow; Mountmellick, Co Laois; Clara, Co Offaly and Kildare Town.