Fingal Libraries launches Fingal Libraries Development Plan 2018 – 2023
Fingal County Council’s Library Department launched the Fingal Libraries Development Plan 2018-2023 in The Atrium on Wednesday 28 March.
Present at the launch of the five-year development plan was Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley and County Librarian Betty Boardman and Chief Executive of Fingal County Council Paul Reid. The Development Plan highlights the future of Fingal Libraries as a dynamic and inclusive space that supports and values culture, recreation, literacy, education and economic development.
Speaking at the launch on Wednesday, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley said: “Libraries are a front line service of the Council and play an important role in the community, through a network of ten branch libraries, mobile and housebound services and a local studies and archives section. I am delighted to be a part of the Libraries Development Plan which allows for the continued growth of libraries’ capabilities to provide education, recreation and information to Fingal residents.”
Fingal County Librarian Betty Boardman who said: “The Plan is the result of extensive consultation and discussion with stakeholders, including the general public, elected representatives, local groups and organisations, users and non-users of our services and our staff. It will also allow us to respond to the changing needs of our population through advanced technological services.”
Fingal County has seen a population growth of 77% over the past 20 years making it the fastest growing county in Ireland in addition to having the youngest and most diverse population within the state. Over a million visits were made to public libraries in Fingal during 2017.
Acknowledging the significance of libraries in the lives of Fingal residents, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council Paul Reid said: “The Library Development Plan reinforces the position of Fingal Libraries to enable literacy, education and economic development and recreational activities. Most importantly, the Development Plan emphasises the value of the library space for community engagement, entrepreneurship and self-development.”
The Plan identifies seven key objectives: Workforce, Capital and Infrastructure, Collections and Resources, Programming of events and Activities, Technology, Marketing and Communications and Collaboration and Partnerships.
Throughout the lifetime of the Plan, Fingal Libraries will monitor and engage with stakeholders through a process of continuous feedback to respond to and anticipate the changing needs of the community.
ENDS
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Photo caption: Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley, Count Librarian, Betty Boardman and Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Paul Reid at the Libraries Development Plan 2018-2023 Launch in the Atrium, County Hall, Swords.