Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 November 2023
41. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if communities in Carlow will benefit from the recently announced funding of €1.3 million for the provision of new information and communication technology in public libraries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49552/23]
View answerOn 4th November, I announced funding of €1.3 million for the provision of new computers, laptops, iPads and other information and communication technology (ICT) in public libraries across the country. This funding will support the new public library strategy, ‘The Library is the Place’, which was launched in July, and it will enable public libraries to replace outdated equipment which will benefit library users of all ages.
Funding of €12,971.75 was approved for Carlow County Council to support the procurement of ICT equipment including 7 standard desktops, 7 monitors and 5 Apple devices. This equipment will be available in the following 5 libraries in Carlow:
• Carlow Central Library
• Carlow Library Archive
• Carlow Local Studies
• Muinebheag Library
• Borris Library
This funding will help make the public libraries in Carlow more accessible and digitally inclusive places. It will ensure that the libraries are able to provide up-to-date ICT infrastructure because this plays a critical role in helping to support digital inclusion, as well as facilitating literacy and technology skills training for those looking for work.
