Connect with us

News

No more library fines on overdue books

Published

on

L

Libraries across Kerry will no longer be imposing fines on overdue books - and all outstanding fines on members’ accounts will also be removed.

This is in line with all public libraries nationally and is one of the key aims of the new public library strategy ‘Our Public Library 2022: inspiring, connecting and empowering communities’, which was launched by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD, in June 2018.

The strategy states ‘The library is a free lifelong resource that should be available to all without barriers or charges. Library charges have been shown to have a detrimental effect on library use by children and the disadvantaged. However, there is little evidence to show they ensure timely returns – rather they may actually dissuade members and users from returning overdue items’.

However, no fines does not mean no responsibility. Library borrowers will continue to receive reminders and overdue emails to prompt them to return items to the library. Items should be returned as normal on or before their due date to allow them to be borrowed by other library users.

Items can still be renewed online, by phone or in person at a local library. Failure to return or renew items will result in your card being blocked from taking out or renewing any further items, including e-books and e-audio books. Borrowing privileges cannot be restored until an overdue item is returned.

The elimination of overdue fines is another way for libraries to encourage people who might not regularly use the library to experience what they have to offer. Members of the public are encouraged to return undamaged, overdue library items to their local libraries. There will be no fines to pay from January 1 2019, and Kerry Library would be happy to reactivate your library membership for you to begin using your local library again.

Previously paid overdue fines will not be refunded. Also note that fines cannot be cleared from an account until an overdue item is returned to the library.

Kerry Library provides a wide range of free services, including adult and children’s book lending, e-books and audio books, online language and training courses, classroom novels for schools and a local history and archives service. All details are available at www.kerrylibrary.ie.

 

 

Advertisement

News

Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

Published

on

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

Continue Reading

News

Gleneagle Concert Band opens recruitment drive for new members

Published

on

By

The Gleneagle Concert Band is inviting new members of all ages to join the ensemble as it prepares for its new season starting this September.



Open to children, young people, and adults from Killarney and surrounding areas, the band offers specialist instrumental tuition starting from age nine. Beginners can take lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba, percussion, and drums before progressing into the main band.

No previous experience is required for adults or children. The band also welcomes adults who already play an instrument or wish to return to music after a break.

“What makes Gleneagle special is that our musicians don’t just rehearse in a room and play the occasional concert,” said Music Development Officer Vincent Condon. “They perform at major events, festivals and community occasions, take part in film productions, travel internationally and, importantly, have fun together as a band. The band is open to everyone. We welcome young people who want to learn an instrument, as well as adults who have previous musical experience and would like to return to playing.”

For information on registration and lessons, contact 087 222 9513 or visit the band’s social media pages.

Busy summer of events


The Gleneagle Concert Band has concluded a busy 12 months featuring public performances, festival appearances, and charity work.

Highlights included the annual summer street concerts in Killarney town, along with performances at Puck Fair, the Rose of Tralee, and the Summer in Killarney Festival. Band members were also involved in the filming of Jimmy, an upcoming Hollywood biographical drama based on actor Jimmy Stewart.

Community fundraising remained a focus over the past year, with the band supporting local causes including the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club and Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House alongside a sold-out Annual Concert.

Following a tour to Seville in 2025, the band has confirmed its next overseas trip to Bilbao and San Sebastián in northern Spain, scheduled for August 2027.

Continue Reading

Last News

Sport