Significant funding has been allocated to three libraries in Galway under the Small Scale Capital Works Scheme for 2020.

Under the Scheme, which is administered by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys and her department, Clifden, An Spidéal and Westside Libraries will share in funding of €100,000 from the department and a further €11,000 from Galway County Council.

With an allocation of over €65,000, refurbishment works will be carried out at Clifden Library including a new roof and entrance. €37,000 for Westside Library will enable works to be carried out on the windows while funding of €8,400 will enable renovation works at An Spidéal Library, including a new accessible toilet.

In addition, the funding will enable improvements and safety works on account of Covid-19. These include occupancy control systems, Perspex screens and study pods which will all benefit staff and library members.

Libraries also continue to provide online services such as ebooks and audiobooks through BorrowBox, newspapers, magazines and eLearning courses, all of which are free of charge.