Wheels of Connection: Strengthening Senior Communities Through Mobile Libraries in Galway

Description

Our collection includes books, audiobooks, music CDs, and large-print materials tailored to older readers. These resources support intellectual engagement and help maintain independence through continued learning. Through the development of meaningful relationships with patrons the team can tailor the collections to suit the needs of communities in different geographical areas. The staff on board are acutely aware of what each patron enjoys thus ensuring a very tailored and personal service.
With onboard Wi-Fi and dedicated staff, they help users navigate the digital world. From accessing emails and social media to exploring online services, they enable older adults to build confidence with technology. Staff are trained in digital skills and with the addition of the Age Friendly digital skills ambassador as part of the team, they offer one-to-one learning opportunities to older patrons. Galway Mobile staff are also trained in the utilization of the JAM Card Initiative, which was initially developed for those with learning difficulties, now encompasses anyone who experiences a communication barrier. The ethos of asking for ‘Just A Minute’ allows for services to be tailored in response for patience and a little more support.
Creativity is a powerful catalyst for connection, healing, and personal growth—especially in nursing care and library work. When integrated into care environments, creative practices not only enrich the daily lives of older adults but also foster emotional wellbeing, cognitive stimulation, and a sense of purpose. The team working together with nursing home programme coordinators create vibrant, inclusive events such as arts and craft workshops, storytelling sessions, poetry readings, themed quizzes and musical sessions where imagination thrives, memories are honoured, and every individual is empowered to express themselves.
Health literacy becomes increasingly important—but also more complex. For older adults, this skill is essential, age-related changes—such as reduced vision, hearing loss, slower cognitive processing, and memory challenges can significantly impact an older adult’s ability to comprehend and act on health information.
Despite these barriers, the team utilize targeted strategies can greatly enhance health literacy among older populations.
The mobile roadshow targeted rural communities living in Conemara and coordinated a campaign that brought organisations such as Mental Health Ireland, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, ALONE and the Irish Cancer Society to meet with isolated and rural communities.
In partnership with Galway Rural Development and Galway Lions Club, they deliver Message In A Bottle to older and vulnerable people, providing emergency services with vital medical information. They also distribute the Directory of Services for Older People and Christmas cards in collaboration with Age Friendly Galway, supporting wellbeing and connection.
Our involvement with community groups such as Muintir na Tíre and Galway Rural Development includes participation in Community Come Back Days and Positive Aging Week. Through the “Make the Link” Roadshow, they connect with active retirement groups, introduce the services, and build lasting relationships.
For those with limited mobility or who are housebound, they offer a home delivery service. This ensures that everyone, regardless of circumstance, can enjoy the benefits of the library and stay connected to their community.

Aim of Initiative

By bringing accessible information, cultural enrichment, and human interaction directly to the doorsteps of those who need it most, the Galway mobile library helps reduce isolation, support lifelong learning, and promote health and wellbeing.
In doing so, it embodies the true spirit of inclusive, age-friendly communities—where everyone, regardless of age or ability, has the opportunity to stay informed, engaged, and empowered.

Who is it aimed at

Older adults and those living in rural or isolated communities in County Galway.

3 Steps critical to success

1. support from senior management in libraries and the senior teams of Galway County Council who seek the value in community engagement in rural and isolated communities
2. The importance of proactive teams working in community settings, ability of teams to research and identify areas that require outreach. Staff open to opportunities and willing to adapt services to support others
3. Investment in mobile vehicles and additional roads and engineering support

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Infrastructure and ensuring the vehicles are maintained and updated.
2. Increased expenditure due to the rural nature of the service and the need to travel for both the library and the facilitators who support events and programmes.
3. Ensuring that routes allow for time to engage with people while maintaining a full service across the county.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. The mobile library service extends the remit of our branch network creating community connections, reaching rural communities and supporting independent living
2. With extensive programming, outreach and events the team working proactively in supporting people in their communities. Listening to the community need and tailoring services to meet those needs.
3. The visual presence of the mobile library network allows people to engage and experience services on the ground. The team provides extensive outreach including home deliveries and ease the isolation of many of the patrons who use the service