Explore your local library on National Public Libraries Open Day

Meath County Council Library Service will join libraries across Ireland on Saturday, 27th September to celebrate National Public Libraries Open Day 2025.

Meath Libraries will have a selection of new Interactive Science Kits for children aged eight plus on display in all libraries. Some of the themes from the nine kits include astronomy, coding, maths and music. The kits can be borrowed as part of the regular twelve items allowance.

Members of the public will also get the chance to see the community/meeting rooms where book clubs, voluntary community groups, craft groups and more can meet.

Trim Library will be showcasing their new Clothes Swap Kits. The kits are a collaboration with Meath County Council’s Climate Action Department. The aim of the kits is to encourage swap shops and to raise awareness on the impacts of fast fashion and textile waste, and to encourage sustainable alternatives to conventional consumption such as second-hand shopping, upcycling and mending of textiles, and clothing swaps.

“Across our branches we see every day how libraries are community spaces where people connect, form friendships, and feel part of something bigger,” said Maedhbh Rogan-McGann, County Librarian. “We’re proud to offer a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone in our community, from toddlers discovering story time to retirees joining book clubs, students preparing for exams, and jobseekers using our digital resources. Libraries help people feel less isolated and more empowered, whether through a quiet moment with a book or a lively community event. We warmly welcome everyone to visit us on Public Libraries Open Day and at any time to explore all that Meath Library Service has to offer.”

The nationwide campaign invites the public to “Take a Closer Look” at the modern, inclusive, and vibrant services libraries offer today. It highlights the evolving role of libraries in Irish society as places of entertainment, learning, connection, creativity, and community support.

This year’s campaign highlights that library membership is free and open to all, while raising awareness of the wide range of services available. In addition to a wide range of soft- and hard-copy books, today’s libraries offer free access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers, eMagazines, and eLearning Courses, alongside programmes of events for all ages, access to printing services, creative and study spaces. Public libraries are welcoming, accessible, inclusive community spaces that offer services and spaces to children and adults who are neurodiverse, while fostering wellbeing, life-long learning, and connection for everyone.

Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development at the Local Government Management Agency said: “Public libraries have evolved into vibrant community hubs that support learning, creativity, wellbeing, and connection. Beyond books, they offer access to IT services, digital tools, creative spaces, and inclusive programmes such as Right to Read, Summer Stars, Family Time at the Library, Literacy for All, Skills for Life, and digital lending services.

“National Public Libraries Open Day is a chance to explore everything your local library has to offer. Whether you're looking to learn something new, connect with others, or simply discover what's available, libraries are welcoming spaces full of opportunity.”