Kildare libraries set for €550K investment to boost digital services on offer

Almost €550,000 in funding has been promised for library services in Kildare, it has been confirmed.   A total of €547,262 has been allocated towards the county's library services by the government, and this investment will enhance ICT infrastructure, create new meeting spaces with state of the art technology and provide dedicated digital learning suites.   Confirming the funding, Deputy Martin Heydon said: “The new facilities and services will attract new users of all ages to our public libraries. This funding will transform our public library service across Kildare.”   “The funding includes the provision of iPads/tablets/smart devices for users and for staff to assist users; computers and workstations including image deployment technology; software to support design, gaming and coding; Meeting space technology; Podcasting equipment and workstations.   "I am delighted to see innovative technology such as “Dementia Tables” which facilitate play and learning for people with mild to severe dementia as well as those with intellectual disabilities, learning difficulties and autism; Mobile LCD screens with audio; Interactive whiteboards and digital training suites.   “All of this shows how progressive our libraries have become. We are to the forefront with new technologies and services for our local communities here in Kildare”, Heydon said.