Working collaboratively with the library network to provide access to a Citizens Information service

Project title: Working collaboratively with the library network to provide access to a Citizens Information service

Organisation: Citizens Information Board in collaboration with Galway County Council, Wicklow County Council and Wexford County Council

Sector: Non-Commercial State Agency

Amount awarded: €45,000

This project will build on the rural library network as a trusted community hub with reliable, well-informed staff and leverage this resource to link people to Citizens Information Services (CIS) using technology. The project team will source and install soundproof workspace pods for two libraries, into which IT support can be installed and facilitate a private meeting with citizens and the Citizen Information Centres (CICs).

Intended outcomes:

1. Enhancing access to services to citizens who are without access to the internet, or skills to engage with digital content or lack the necessary hardware to access internet services.

2. Enhanced collaboration between stakeholders (libraries and CISs) in optimising a joint service to clients. Supporting the implementation and achievement of the Harnessing Digital – The Digital Ireland Framework with an expectation in 90% of services conducted online by 2030.

3. Expected reduction in associates costs and environmental impact to citizens who no longer need to travel to CIC locations to use CIC services.