Abstract
This dissertation examines the response of the Public Library Service of Fingal County to the onset of the recession since 2009. It is a qualitative study, undertaken in July and August 2012, interviewing the members of staff of a number of library branches across Fingal County. The research outlines the opinions and perspectives of the staff members to the changes in the patrons’ demands of the public library service with particular emphasis on the needs of the job-seekers in the Fingal County. The research finds a library service that was primed to react to the dramatic increase in patrons using the service in the years since 2009. The service has successfully responded to the needs of the patrons. The service has experienced cuts in funding, staff numbers and opening hours but has increased its partnership and collaboration with other local state agencies and organisations {for instance schools, FAS (Irish National Training and Employment Authority), Age Action and Europe Direct} to meet the growing needs of the community. The study also highlights the growing trend towards volunteerism among library patrons in times of economic uncertainty. The public library continues to be a place of social inclusion for all the community of Fingal County regardless of means. The Public Library Service of Fingal County has proven that it is, and will remain, a fundamental cornerstone in the local community.
