Libraries

The Department's vision

The Department's vision for the public library service is:

‘A flexible and responsive library service which provides a dynamic focal point in the community and assists people to fulfil their potential’

Libraries NI

The Department funds the public library service, which since 1 April 2009 has been administered by the Northern Ireland Library Authority, known as Libraries NI.

The functions of Libraries NI are set out in the Libraries Act (NI) 2008.

The Department for Communities is the sponsor Department for Libraries NI. The Partnership Agreement explains the overall governance framework within which Libraries NI operates, including the framework through which the necessary assurances are provided to stakeholders.

• Partnership Agreement between the Department for Communities and Libraries NI

Libraries NI services

Services provided by Libraries NI include:

• free membership and lending service including books, e-books, e-newspapers, e-magazines and audio books
• free WI-FI, access to computers and support for people accessing on-line information and services
• special events celebrating local culture and creativity
• programmed events and activities for adults and children
• access to information about public services and activities in the community
• printing, scanning and photocopying (small charge applied)
• areas for study and relaxation

Libraries NI aim to provide welcoming and inclusive spaces for people to work, learn, and be together. There is ongoing investment by the Department for Communities in the public library network to improve and modernise local libraries for people to access and enjoy.

More information is available on the Libraries NI website:

• Libraries NI

The Department also supports:

• Linen Hall Library

Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries

The reports below contain the outturn results for the Public Library Standards which form part of the Department for Communities Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries Policy.

• Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries - Public Library Standards - 2021-22
• Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries - Public Library Standards - 2020-21
• Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries - Public Library Standards - 2019-20
• Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries - Public Library Standards - 2018-19

PRONI

The Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) is the official archive for Northern Ireland. It aims to identify and preserve records of historical, social and cultural importance and make them available for the information, education and enjoyment of the public.

PRONI is the official place of deposit for public records in Northern Ireland. In addition, it collects a wide range of archives from private sources. PRONI also advises on and promotes best practice in archive and records management to ensure that today’s records will be available for future generations.

Further information can be found at the PRONI website:

• PRONI