Louth Library Service celebrates Library of Sanctuary award

Dundalk Library hosted a celebration on March 7th to celebrate the Louth Library Service receiving the "Library of Sanctuary" award. Louth County Council’s Library Service is the first in the country to gain this award for a library service as a whole, with the five branches and schools service gaining recognition.  

Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Councillor Conor Keelan welcomed representatives from Places of Sanctuary Ireland and Sanctuary Ambassadors from Dundalk, while also recognising what a hugely positive time it is for Louth County Council’s Library Service with considerable investment, numerous new initiatives, services and infrastructural upgrades that have taken place recently.

The award was officially presented to Joan Martin, Chief Executive of Louth County Council by Tiffy Allen, National Co-Ordinator Places of Sanctuary Ireland who commented, “Louth Library Service does wonderful pioneering work to make refugees and people seeking international protection feel welcome in the community. That work should be a guiding light to libraries throughout Ireland.”

This award recognises the good practice taking place in Louth County Council’s Library Service and the contribution libraries make to building a community of welcome and sanctuary across County Louth, welcoming people seeking sanctuary and all new arrivals in the community.  

Louth Library Service says that welcome and inclusion are its core principles and the vision going forward is to ensure that Louth libraries continue to be safe and nurturing spaces for all and to support other local organisations such as schools to gain ‘Sanctuary’ status.

Louth Libraries offer a varied, relevant physical stock, a suite of e-Services including e-books, e-audio books, language learning opportunities and much more. The introduction of the My Open Library initiative in Drogheda and the re-opening of My Open Library in Ardee, together with a service wide enhanced digital upgrade offer increased opportunities and accessibility for the community.

Acting County Librarian, Amanda Branigan, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised by Places of Sanctuary Ireland. It is a testament to the hard work and enthusiasm of our staff and we will continue to strengthen and support communities by providing dynamic, inclusive and responsive library services.”

For more information on Louth Library Service log on to https://www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/library/