To keep our Public Libraries staffed, safe and open to all.

The Irish Government is planning to roll out unstaffed public libraries at certain times of the day to extend library hours. During these times the libraries will not be open they will be locked and preregistered users will gain entry using their library card and a pin number. No staff will be present. Security will be provided by unmonitored CCTV systems. Children will not be able to access this service. Although this service is being heralded as an extra service, it may be problematic in terms of access for certain sectors of the community, namely people with physical or mental disabilities, young adults, children and others. It also undermines the work of paid library staff.

These plans raise questions for Irish communities

We are calling for:

1. A full and independent analysis of the pilot scheme on which this roll out plan is based with widened parameters

2. The Irish Government to make public the Blueprint for Public  Libraries because it is not working now from the published plan 'Opportunities for All'

3. All stakeholders to join the conversation to share their views on the Public Library Service in Ireland