Chief Executive Leonard Cleary of Galway City Council recently visited three of Galway’s public libraries—Ballybane, Westside, and Galway City Library—to meet with library teams and witness the impact of their community-focused initiatives.
At Ballybane Library, Mr. Cleary observed a Rhyme Time session, part of the library’s early years support programme. These parent-and-child gatherings promote early literacy, social development, and community connection, and are a key element of Ballybane’s commitment to family engagement.
In Westside Library, he toured the sensory space designed to support children with additional needs. This inclusive environment provides a safe and calming space for children and their families, ensuring that all members of the community can access and enjoy library services.
At Galway City Library, Mr. Cleary met with staff involved in Age Friendly initiatives, which aim to reduce isolation among older adults through tailored programming and welcoming spaces that encourage social interaction and lifelong learning.
During his visit, Mr. Cleary also met with County and City Librarian Elizabeth Keane to discuss the strategic role of library services in Galway City. Their conversation focused on the importance of programmes and initiatives that create inclusive, welcoming spaces for all members of the community, and the evolving role of libraries as hubs of support, learning, and civic engagement.
To mark the occasion, Mr. Cleary was presented with a Galway Public Libraries membership card at Galway City Library. This card offers access to the vast array of digital resources available through the library service—including eBooks, eMagazines, and online newspapers, as well as free access to online courses, learning supports, and multilingual reading programmes that promote literacy and inclusion across all age groups.
Mr. Cleary’s visit reaffirmed Galway City Council’s commitment to supporting the transformative work of public libraries in building a more connected, equitable, and resilient city.
To find out about your local library, see https://www.GalwayCity.ie/Services/Your-Council/Your-Council-Services/Libraries
You can search the Library Catalogue on-line at www.GalwayLibrary.ie