Whether or not you have a voracious appetite for books, any preconceived notions you may have held about libraries should be shelved. Libraries across Ireland are now the ‘in’ places to be – and not just for bibliophiles.

Yvonne Reilly is senior executive librarian at Blanchardstown Library, the largest library in Ireland with an average footfall of 1,700 people a day. She explains that libraries are “much more than books”. Some 12.5 million items of ‘stock’ are held in Ireland’s 358 branch and 29 mobile libraries.

“It’s important to stop seeing libraries as a functional place, as a place where there’s just books stored for lending. They’re much more than books. We have books that are a backbone stock for lending. For the non-reader, we have films, current DVDs that can be borrowed and music CDs that can be borrowed.”

Pictures for your wall
An interesting twist on what some libraries lend to members is pictures that you hang on your wall, which can be borrowed for up to three months. “If you’re redecorating your room and you’re not sure about colour tones, borrow a picture; see if that’s the right size even for your space.”

While some local authorities charge a nominal fee for library membership, most don’t and all items are free to peruse or borrow.

Computer training
In addition, notes Reilly, there is free internet access, which is particularly popular with older age groups. In Ireland, 97 per cent of libraries have internet access and 1.6 million internet sessions took place in 2007. Recognising that many people of a certain generation would not have familiarity with the internet, libraries with internet access are availing of a FÁS e-college project, offering training in the use of computers.

“It’s for that age group that maybe have very little knowledge [of computers and the internet]. It’s not scary, it’s lifestyle sites: how to book your Aer Lingus flights, how to check your recipes, how to manage your budget – all very relevant stuff – and it’s all free.”

This training is oversubscribed, which is no surprise considering the increased popularity of libraries in the past year. “We’re busy and we’re getting busier with the recession. We can see a definite uptake in library issues and our membership is increasing.”

Despite the resurgence in interest in libraries in Ireland, there is still an untapped market; those who just see it as a place for books. “A lot of people switch off to libraries. They see it as quite elitist,” comments Reilly. In addition to books, DVDs and CDs, libraries also have daily newspapers and periodicals (magazine) that are available to read in the library; back copies of magazines can be borrowed.

Local history
If you’re interested in local history or keen to trace your family history, your library should be your first point of contact. “Most libraries will have a local studies collection, which could have very valuable material,” she adds.

Remaining current is also of importance and stock is continually being updated. Libraries are buying in new books, DVDs and CDs all the time. And, stresses Reilly, if you can’t find the book you want, ask for it and your library will try and get it from another branch library or another library service. In some cases, if a book’s not available and a librarian believes it’s worth the investment, they may buy it in.

Books brought to you
People who are housebound or have mobility issues can also avail of their library’s mobile service and have books brought to them. In some areas, it’s possible to join online, check the catalogue online and request your book online.

Apart from the items in stock, there are other things happening in libraries. Some libraries have coffee machines or coffee areas, so are a good alternative to a café for meeting friends. There are regular exhibitions to visit as well as a range of events, from knitting clubs to book clubs. “It’s a focal point in a community and well worth a visit.”