Longford Libraries invites communities to discover the benefits of membership on National Public Libraries Open Day 2026

‘Take a Closer Look’ at Longford Libraries

Longford Libraries is encouraging people of all ages to visit their local library on National Public Libraries Open Day 2026, taking place on Saturday, 26 September, and discover the benefits of free library membership.

National Public Libraries Open Day is a nationwide celebration of Ireland's public library network, showcasing the wide range of services, programmes and resources available through the country's 330 public libraries and encouraging more people to explore and use their local library.

To mark the day, Longford Libraries invites the community to ‘Take A Closer Look’ at what your local library has to offer during National Public Libraries Open Day. This nationwide celebration highlights how libraries have evolved into vibrant hubs of creativity, learning, inclusivity, community and connection. 

A series of special activities will run across the six library branches in County Longford from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, 26 September.

Members of the public can also have their say on how the library should evolve and what they would like to see in branch. The library survey is available to take in branch or online at Longford Libraries Survey

Longford Libraries is also running a social media campaign highlighting what the library has to offer. 
Key library services include:

• Library Digital Apps provide free access to audiobooks, ebooks, newspapers, magazines, language learning, music streaming. By switching to one of the apps provided for free by the library, you could save money
• Large Book Collection
• C-Pens
• Board Games
• Vitamin D Light Therapy
• Home Energy Testing Kits
• Birdwatching Kits
• Exercise Classes
• Craft Groups
• Book Club

Libraries continue to be a destination for book lovers, with extensive collections for readers of all ages and interests. However, modern libraries offer much more than books. Members can access eBooks, audiobooks, online newspapers and magazines, learning resources, family programmes, cultural events, community activities and welcoming spaces to read, learn and connect. 

Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan said, “National Public Libraries Open Day is an opportunity to promote the role Longford Libraries play in the local community and to invite more people through the doors of our libraries.
“Libraries are welcoming spaces where people of all ages can discover new interests, learn new skills, connect with others and access a wide range of services and supports. From books and reading programmes to community activities, local history resources and learning opportunities, libraries offer something for everyone.”

Longford County Council Chief Executive Samantha Healy said, “We encourage anyone who hasn't visited one of the six Longford branch libraries recently, or who has never joined before, to come along on National Public Libraries Open Day and see how your local library and library membership can enrich everyday life. Library staff will be on hand throughout the day to welcome visitors, introduce them to the range of services available and help them make the most of everything their library has to offer.”

Head of Libraries Development at the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), Dr Stuart Hamilton said, “Public libraries are one of more than 1,100 services delivered by local authorities every day and continue to play a vital role in communities across Ireland.

“National Public Libraries Open Day is a celebration of that contribution and an opportunity to showcase the breadth of services available through Ireland's public library network.

“Whether people are interested in reading, lifelong learning, local history, creativity or community activities, their local library provides opportunities to learn, connect and participate. 

“We encourage everyone to visit their local library on 26 September and discover the benefits of free library membership.”
For further information on National Public Libraries Open Day 2026 and activities at Longford Libraries visit www. www.longfordlibrary.ie or follow Longford Libraries on social media. The library survey is available to take in branch or online at Longford Libraries Survey