The theme of this year’s Library Ireland Week (17th to 24th November) is “Open for Business”, focusing on the role of libraries in serving the business community and in supporting entrepreneurship, job skills and creation, innovation, and much more.
Library Ireland Week was officially launched on November 12th in Drogheda Library by Gavin Duffy, entrepreneur, business coach and Dragon’s Den investor. He was joined by Paddy Matthews, President of Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, Jane Cantwell, President of the Library Association of Ireland and Bernadette Fennell, Louth County Librarian.
Jane Cantwell, President of the Library Association said “The Library Association of Ireland is proud to support Library Ireland Week 2014. Librarians from all kinds of libraries all over the country have been busy organising events, seminars, talks and exhibitions to showcase how libraries support jobs, innovation and business. During this week and throughout the year, our libraries are definitely open for business. Library Ireland Week will showcase the wonderful resources available in all libraries to support business, whether that’s a new start-up, an existing business or an individual looking for help with job searching or preparing a CV.”
Businesses, students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and local traders are urged to check out the supports available in their local library. These include meeting spaces and training rooms; WiFi access, printing and scanning facilities; books, journals and databases on careers, business and education opportunities. Libraries support lifelong learning by providing computer classes, language learning workshops, CV preparation and career talks. Digital resources include access to a host of databases and online learning resources. Libraries work in collaboration with third level institutions, Local Enterprise Offices, SOLAS, Education and Training Boards, Chambers of Commerce, Government Departments and Agencies.
Gavin Duffy highlighted “Libraries are no longer just full of great books that entertain and enlighten you. They have transformed into invaluable community resource centres of online information to help you with your studies, job searches, personal development, business, genealogy etc. Whether it’s from between the covers of a book or through a digital window there are so many fascinating untold and untapped stories and opportunities just waiting for you”.
For further information on local library events check out www.libraryirelandweek.ie. To be in with a chance to win an iPad like and share our Facebook page Library Ireland Week and also follow us on Twitter @libraryweek2014.
