Libraries across Clare will open their doors to showcase the breadth of services, activities and resources available to the public as part of National Public Libraries Open Day 2026 on Saturday, September 26.
To mark the day, events will be taking place in Ennis, Ennistymon, Kilkee, Kilrush, Milltown Malbay, Scarriff, Shannon & Sixmilebridge libraries.
At De Valera Library, Ennis, Clare FM will broadcast live from the building throughout the morning, creating opportunities to engage with the wider community and promote library services. Visitors can also explore information displays highlighting the full range of library resources and programmes available.
In Shannon Library, visitors will have an opportunity to explore the library’s growing range of sensory supports and inclusive resources. Staff will showcase the library’s sensory collection, the recently installed Cubbie sensory pod, and the new sensory playground located in the library garden. These facilities provide welcoming spaces that support relaxation, learning and play for children and adults of all abilities and demonstrate the library’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
At Ennistymon Library, visitors can enjoy the ‘Inspired by Books’ exhibition, which showcases a wide range of creative works by local children inspired by books they have read. The exhibition highlights the many ways reading can spark imagination and creativity, featuring projects ranging from artistic creations and baked goods to engineering and design projects. The display celebrates both a love of reading and the remarkable talents of young people in the local community.
Clare County Librarian, Cora Gunter said, “National Public Libraries Open Day is an opportunity to promote the role Clare Libraries plays in the local community. We would encourage anyone who hasn’t visited their local library recently, or who has never joined before, to come along on the day and see how your local library and library membership can enrich everyday life. Our staff will be on hand throughout the day to welcome visitors, introduce them to the range of services available and help them make the most of everything their library has to offer.”
Head of Libraries Development at the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), Dr Stuart Hamilton said, “Public libraries are one of more than 1,100 services delivered by local authorities every day and continue to play a vital role in communities across Ireland. National Public Libraries Open Day is a celebration of that contribution and an opportunity to showcase the breadth of services available through Ireland’s public library network. Whether people are interested in reading, lifelong learning, local history, creativity or community activities, their local library provides opportunities to learn, connect and participate. We encourage everyone to visit their local library on September 26 and discover the benefits of free library membership.”
For further information on National Public Libraries Open Day 2026 and activities at Clare Libraries, visit clarelibraries.ieor follow Clare Libraries on Facebook and @clarecountylibrary on Instagram.