Service at Douglas library suspended due to antisocial behaviour
Services available during the unstaffed hours include: Returning and borrowing books, collecting reserved items, using public computers, wifi, printing, photocopying, study spaces, and room booking. File picture
The My Open Library service has been suspended at Douglas library with immediate effect following persistent antisocial behaviour.
Cork City Council said it regrets withdrawing the service, which involves public libraries offering extended opening hours using a mix of staffed and unstaffed self-service hours.
During unstaffed hours, members who are registered My Open Library members can access participating library branches from 8am to 10pm every day, including weekends.
Services available during the unstaffed hours include: Returning and borrowing books, collecting reserved items, using public computers, wifi, printing, photocopying, study spaces, and room booking.
The My Open Library service remains available in Bishopstown, Glanmire, and Blackpool libraries.
A Cork City Council spokesperson told : “My Open Library in Douglas is suspended until further notice due to persistent and unacceptable antisocial behaviour.
“Cork City Libraries regret the inconvenience this will cause to the many legitimate users of the My Open Library service in Douglas. This measure is taken in the interest of the safety of all users.”
Fine Gael councillor for the area Shane O’Callaghan said antisocial behaviour is an issue in Douglas, and that replicating the high-visibility policing model in the city centre would make a huge difference.
“I’m very sorry to hear that the library will be closed for those extra hours due to a small number of people who are basically ruining it for everybody else, it’s an awful shame.
“I’m making enquiries on what the situation is, who the individuals responsible are, and if anything can be done to make sure they are not permitted near the library so it can be reopened fully, because it’s not acceptable that a small cohort of people are ruining a good service.”
A permanent high-visibility policing plan, launched in November 2025, introduced 48 additional gardaí to Cork city centre to combat antisocial behaviour, drug dealing, shoplifting, and public order issues.
Mr O’Callaghan said this should be extended to the suburbs too: “Garda visibility, gardaí walking around on the beat, makes a huge difference, particularly in terms of deterrence. It’s had a massive positive impact in the city centre, and it should be replicated across other parts of the city like Douglas village.”
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