Dundalk Library Service Celebrates Community Impact and Expansion

The Dundalk Library Service marked a milestone this week, celebrating the impact it has had on the community and its continued expansion. A tribute event was held in honour of the Chief Executive, who could not attend because of a family bereavement. Director Gerr Murphy spoke about how the library’s growth has become an integral part of life for residents across Louth.

The service began as a single collection that struggled with limited stock and relied on borrowed books to meet demand. Over time it grew into a county‑wide network, earning praise from locals and a nomination for an All‑Ireland award in 2021. Today the library operates several branches – in Dundalk, Drogheda, Ardee, Dunleer, Carlingford – plus a mobile service that brings books to rural areas.

Louth County Library offers more than 100 000 items across its network. Patrons can borrow books, language tapes, audio books, music and CD collections, large‑print titles, magazines and journals. An extensive reference collection is available, and every branch provides free internet access. The library also runs a “My Little Library” book‑bag programme in partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as part of the First 5 Strategy. From 2025 each child starting school will receive a free bag that includes two books – one on beginning school and another on making friends – along with a library card and a special book‑holder.

The library’s community reach is further highlighted by its participation in national events such as Ireland Reads, which was celebrated this Saturday, and the return of the Summer Stars programme to encourage young readers across Louth. For more information, see Dundalk FM and the Louth County Library website.

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