A total of €3 million funding has been allocated to upgrade over 110 public libraries in Ireland.

The government funding will be matched by local authorities to the value of around €1.1 million.

The public libraries strategy, Our Public Libraries 2022, seeks to deliver a progressive library service and facilities that are fit for purpose.

The funding announcement, along with the library projects funded under the Libraries Capital Programme and the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, sees a major investment in public library buildings across the country.

-- Advertisement --

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, said: "When I launched this initiative earlier in the summer I allocated €2.5 million total. However, following the receipt of the applications, and in recognition of the breadth and quality of the proposals, I have decided to increase the overall allocation to €3m, providing each Library Authority with €100,000 for their proposed works.

"The works range from the installation of study pods, to Perspex screens, to building extensions; all of which will make a real difference to the library buildings as they adapt to the new public health guidelines.

"These works will strengthen the library's position as a community hub and ensure that it is a modern, well-equipped and comfortable facility that will leave a positive legacy for years to come. In total 113 libraries will be upgraded with this funding."

Works will commence in the libraries over the coming weeks.