EU Presidency conference highlights the vital role of public libraries

'Strengthening Europe Through Public Libraries' report launched at Trinity College Dublin

The vital role played by public libraries in supporting learning, culture, inclusion and community life, was highlighted as Irish and European library representatives gathered at Trinity College, Dublin.

The conference also hosted the launch of a report titled 'Strengthening Europe Through Public Libraries' which was compiled over the past two years be a Europe-wide libraries expert group, co-chaired by Ireland.

With an estimated 67,000 public libraries serving 757 million visitors, public libraries represent a significant asset for Europe and Europeans in addressing social, cultural and educational challenges. These include access to trustworthy information, lifelong learning, culture, digital inclusion, and providing welcoming spaces and connections between people and services. The report provides a roadmap to shape cooperation across Europe to stimulate library development and to inform public library developments.

The conference was informed about Ireland’s strategy-led approach, multi-agency and local government partnerships and targeted investment to provide multi-functional welcoming spaces at the heart of communities in urban and rural areas. This approach reflects the vision for public libraries as set out in the report.

Opening the conference, Minister Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities said: “Public libraries are among the most accessible and trusted public services in our communities. They offer far more than books: they are places to learn, connect with others, access reliable information and take part in community life. By working with local authorities, community organisations and partners across Europe, we can help libraries continue to respond to the needs of people and places”.

In a video message to the conference, Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, stated: “Public libraries are essential public infrastructure for a democratic, open and diverse Europe. In an age of algorithms and screens, libraries offer something increasingly precious: safe, open spaces where people of all ages can learn, connect and belong. Libraries give us a place to experience what it is to be European. As we strengthen protections for young people online, we must also invest in alternatives physical spaces like these, where social cohesion, democracy and the well-being of communities are practised every day.”

Dr Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development, Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), and Expert Group Co-Chair, added: “This report highlights the significant contribution public libraries make to addressing key challenges facing communities across Europe, including literacy and lifelong learning, digital inclusion, social cohesion and democratic participation. The findings closely align with the vision set out in The Library is the Place, Ireland's national public library strategy, which positions libraries at the heart of communities and as key partners in addressing social, economic and environmental challenges. The report underlines the case for recognising libraries as essential community infrastructure and for sustained investment in library services, staff, buildings and digital infrastructure, so that libraries can continue to deliver meaningful benefits for people and communities across Europe”.

The conference is also considering how public libraries can be recognised and supported as essential services and strategic partners in delivering European, national and local priorities.