Cork County Libraries Launch Free Skills for Life Programme

Cork County Council has launched Skills for Life, a new nationwide initiative offering free workshops and resources to help people develop essential life skills across six key areas, from digital literacy to sustainable living.

The programme is being rolled out across all local authority library services in Ireland and is free to access for everyone. Cork County Libraries will host a range of practical workshops and talks, including smartphone tutorials in Fermoy Library and cybersecurity sessions in Bandon, Kinsale and Mitchelstown Libraries.

Skills for Life covers six essential areas: basic digital skills for everyday tasks, financial literacy for better money management, media literacy to navigate online information safely, employment and business skills guidance, health awareness for informed decision-making, and sustainable living through environmental education.

Mayor Linehan Foley said:

"Today's libraries are vibrant, welcoming spaces where people come not just to read, but to learn, engage, and gain new skills. The Skills for Life programme allows Cork County Council to meet communities across the County of Cork where they are, offering practical support for everyday challenges."

The Mayor added that libraries are trusted, inclusive spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can access support to navigate everyday challenges and meet their goals, empowering individuals with the confidence and skills to thrive in today's world.

The programme is part of the national public libraries strategy "The Library is the Place 2023–2027" and reflects the expanding role of libraries as trusted community lifelong learning hubs. It is designed to be flexible, allowing each library to tailor services to local needs through workshops, curated resources, expert talks and partnerships with community organisations.

Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency, said:

"Skills for Life marks a significant evolution in how libraries support lifelong learning and community wellbeing. By offering free, accessible resources across key areas like digital literacy, employment skills, and health awareness, we're helping people build the tools they need to navigate modern life with confidence."

He added that the initiative reflects the library sector's deep commitment to inclusion, opportunity and public service, reinforcing the role of libraries as vital community anchors for learning, growth and resilience.

The programme is designed to connect with people through services that matter to their everyday lives. It offers support for engaged library users looking to build practical skills, jobseekers and adult learners accessing resources on employment and digital literacy, community groups building confidence and independence, and young adults navigating modern life through topics like media, health and digital awareness.

For further information, visit the Cork County Library website or contact Cork County Library on 021 4774266 or email corkcountylibrary@corkcoco.ie.