Cork council joins initiative to help public learn key skills for life

Cork County Council has announced its participation in the Skills for Life programme being rolled out across all local authority library services in Ireland.

The new nationwide initiative is designed to help individuals build essential life skills and is free to access for everyone.

The Skills for Life programme offers practical support across six essential areas:

Helping individuals build basic digital skills for everyday tasks Improving financial literacy for better money management Developing media literacy to navigate online information safely Providing guidance on employment and business skills Promoting health awareness for informed decision-making on personal and family health Encouraging sustainable living through environmental education Among the events taking place include workshops and talks such as “Introduction to Using your Smartphone” in Fermoy library to “Cyber Security Talks on Practical Ways to Stay Safe Online” in Bandon, Kinsale and Mitchelstown libraries.

Mayor of the County of Cork Mayor Linehan Foley, said the Skills for Life programme allows Cork County Council provides practical support for everyday challenges.

“Libraries are trusted, inclusive spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can access the supports they need to navigate everyday challenges and meet their goals.

“It’s about empowering individuals with the confidence and skills to thrive in today’s world.” 

The Skills for Life programme is part of the national public libraries “The Library is the Place 2023 – 2027” strategy, reflecting the expanding role of libraries as trusted community lifelong learning hubs.

The programme is designed to be flexible and for 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 (LGMA) added “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.

“This initiative reflects the library sector’s deep commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and public service.

“Libraries are trusted spaces and through this programme, we’re reinforcing their role as vital community anchors for learning, growth, and resilience.”