Libraries across Galway will close this Thursday evening, in order to facilitate the installation of a new national computer system.
The branches will reopen on Tuesday July 12, and the new system ensures that Galway libraries keep up with the latest technological advances available to them.
The public libraries in Ireland are working together to create one joint library catalogue, using a shared computer system, which will provide a better service to library users, and book lovers.
"We regret closing our libraries from Friday July 8 to July 12, but this is necessary to enable the installation of a new National Library Management System that will benefit the Galway library public," said Peter Rabbitt, head of libraries in Galway.
"This new computer system, along with our free membership, will enable every person, if they wish, to avail of online services 24/7 and benefit from a wider choice of books and items, including eBooks and eAudio."
To compensate for the four day closure, library members will be able to borrow up to 12 books with immediate effect.
The new shared and upgraded system will allow users to search and request items using the new shared library catalogue, offering readers a much wider catalogue of works.
It will also benefit the library by enabling reminder emails to be sent which will highlight books which may soon be overdue, and facing an extra charge.
For more information, contact your local library, or visit www.galwaylibrary.ie
The following libraries will not reopen until Wednesday July 13: Athenry, Dunmore, Headford, Oughterard, Portumna, An Spidéal, and Westside.
