Menu
06/11/2001
Conference opens book on future of NI Library Service
A three-day conference on the future of the Public Library Service in Northern Ireland is currently taking place.
Part of ‘Tomorrow’s Libraries’, an ongoing review of the Public Library Service in Northern Ireland, the conference was opened by the Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister Michael McGimpsey in Newcastle.
Addressing almost 60 delegates, including librarians and representatives from Education and Library Boards, who are taking part in the three-day brainstorming session to help map out the future of the Service, Mr McGimpsey said: “Local libraries have always been stalwarts of the community and, throughout their existence, they have seen many changes. Our libraries must continue to be the backbone of information and learning for the people of Northern Ireland.
“However, for over 100 years, they have also earned a reputation for adapting to the times and today they find themselves in an age of greater change than ever before. Society is undergoing an information revolution and, while books will always be a library’s stock in trade, the new ways of disseminating information are becoming more and more important.”
The Minister stressed that as well as catering for those who read for pleasure, the Library Service also had a duty to provide lifelong learning opportunities so that people can develop their personal skills and fulfil their potential. He pointed out: “This is an essential part of the Service. In this era of constant technological development, we need to plan well ahead and devise a long-term strategy for the future. We must not lag behind if we are to help build a prosperous future for everyone in the Province.”
The conference runs until November 7 and the final report of the Steering Group overseeing the whole exercise is expected in April 2002. (AMcE)
Part of ‘Tomorrow’s Libraries’, an ongoing review of the Public Library Service in Northern Ireland, the conference was opened by the Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister Michael McGimpsey in Newcastle.
Addressing almost 60 delegates, including librarians and representatives from Education and Library Boards, who are taking part in the three-day brainstorming session to help map out the future of the Service, Mr McGimpsey said: “Local libraries have always been stalwarts of the community and, throughout their existence, they have seen many changes. Our libraries must continue to be the backbone of information and learning for the people of Northern Ireland.
“However, for over 100 years, they have also earned a reputation for adapting to the times and today they find themselves in an age of greater change than ever before. Society is undergoing an information revolution and, while books will always be a library’s stock in trade, the new ways of disseminating information are becoming more and more important.”
The Minister stressed that as well as catering for those who read for pleasure, the Library Service also had a duty to provide lifelong learning opportunities so that people can develop their personal skills and fulfil their potential. He pointed out: “This is an essential part of the Service. In this era of constant technological development, we need to plan well ahead and devise a long-term strategy for the future. We must not lag behind if we are to help build a prosperous future for everyone in the Province.”
The conference runs until November 7 and the final report of the Steering Group overseeing the whole exercise is expected in April 2002. (AMcE)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
21 April 2006
Government plans unveiled for £2 million state of the art library in Antrim
The government has today unveiled plans to build a £2 million state of the art library for the town of Antrim. Making the announcement earlier today, Libraries Minister, David Hanson said: “Since the beginning of 2005 Antrim Library has been located in temporary premises in a retail unit in the town centre.
Government plans unveiled for £2 million state of the art library in Antrim
The government has today unveiled plans to build a £2 million state of the art library for the town of Antrim. Making the announcement earlier today, Libraries Minister, David Hanson said: “Since the beginning of 2005 Antrim Library has been located in temporary premises in a retail unit in the town centre.
29 October 2013
McClay Library Wins Design Award
The McClay Library at Queen's University in Belfast has won a national architecture and design award. The Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL) Award is presented every three years to a UK library that "best meets the needs of users and staff".
McClay Library Wins Design Award
The McClay Library at Queen's University in Belfast has won a national architecture and design award. The Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL) Award is presented every three years to a UK library that "best meets the needs of users and staff".
22 January 2007
Views sought on single library authority
The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure is seeking views on the setting up of a new Northern Ireland Library Authority.
Views sought on single library authority
The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure is seeking views on the setting up of a new Northern Ireland Library Authority.
25 November 2024
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
13 October 2021
Fines For Over 87,000 Overdue Library Books Wiped
Fines for more than 87,000 overdue library books have been dropped in an effort to encourage people back into NI's libraries. Welcoming the news that Libraries NI have removed fines for overdue library books with immediate effect, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey, said: "Libraries are a crucial resource at the heart of our communities.
Fines For Over 87,000 Overdue Library Books Wiped
Fines for more than 87,000 overdue library books have been dropped in an effort to encourage people back into NI's libraries. Welcoming the news that Libraries NI have removed fines for overdue library books with immediate effect, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey, said: "Libraries are a crucial resource at the heart of our communities.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
