Public Library – Roscrea

Local authorities run a network of public libraries in Ireland. Public libraries are open to everyone and most of their services are free.  You can use some library services without becoming a member.

You need to join the library if you want to:

• Borrow books or other items
• Access online magazine and newspaper subscriptions, or
• Take online courses

To become a library member you need to:

• Fill out the application form online or at any branch.
• Provide proof of your identity and of your address.
• Get your parent or guardian’s permission to join the library if you are under 18.

• You are expected to be quiet in the library as other people may be using the facilities to study, work or read in peace.  Generally, you are not allowed to eat or drink in libraries.

You can read about the terms and conditions of library membership. Each library service issues its own library card. You can use any valid public library card to reserve and borrow items from a public library. You get a pin with your membership card when you join the library. You need this number to use the computers and online services.  The services libraries provide differ depending on their size, location and policies. Some of the services available include:

Lending services & Reserves, requests, and renewals

Members can borrow books, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, e-books, and other materials. Libraries also have many books available in large-print format.  Most libraries have a junior section from babies to teenagers.

Internet services

You can use their computers to access the internet. In some cases, you may need to be a member of your library to use the internet and you may have to book a session in advance. Libraries may offer introductory sessions for new users.

Publications

You can look up reference books and other materials. Such as dictionaries, directories, encyclopaedias, government publications, business information, yearbooks, and atlases.

There are many journals and periodicals. These include national and local newspapers and magazines on a variety of topics. You can also access digital magazines and newspapers online using your library barcode.

Online learning

There are over 500 online courses in a variety of subjects for their members. You can access courses through the Universal Class online system.  You can access over 60 online language courses. Use the Mango Languages software, which is available on your library’s website.

Educational support for schools and students

Services on offer for primary and post-primary schools, for example, class visits to the library. A collection of teaching and learning resources for primary and secondary schools are also available in the Learning Zone section of askaboutIreland.ie.

Information services

You can get information about services provided by government departments. For example, you get information about social welfare.  You can access the national environmental information service (ENFO). You can use this service to find information on the main environmental topics in Ireland.  You can get information about the history of your county or locality. For example, county and parish histories, maps, photographs, drawings, old records, and newspapers.  You can get information about healthy and attend talks and presentations. This is part of the Healthy Ireland initiative.

Business and employment supports

The Work Matters service at the library can help you look for a job. It can also help you if you are thinking of starting your own business. You can access business publications and work-related e-learning courses. You have access to space for meetings, study, and research.

Literacy support

The Right to Read programme encourages children to read. See how to encourage children to read. Some libraries also offer support to adults who want to improve their literacy.

Community groups

Public libraries often provide a space and support for groups. For example, book clubs, movie clubs and mother and toddler groups. Most libraries know about clubs and societies and events in their locality.

Photocopying and printing

Your local public library may provide photocopying and printing services.  Contact your local library to see what services are available there.

Depending on your age, you can access different collections and services. See the terms and conditions:

• Adults – Access to all library collections, services and the internet.
• Child under 12 – Access to the children’s library, to DVDs up to a PG rating, and children’s internet services.
• Young adults 12-14 – Access to the children’s and young adult library, to DVDs up to a 12 rating, and children’s internet services.
• Young adults 15-17 – Access to the adult library, to DVDs up to 15 rating, and internet services.