The Republic of Ireland's public libraries will use BDS metadata starting this year. The Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) awarded the five-year contract. Civica's cloud Spydus library management software will deliver the BDS metadata to libraries.

"This represents a huge vote of confidence in BDS's metadata and service," says Sarah Armitage, Director of Library Sales. "It means that BDS will be servicing every public library in the UK and Ireland. BDS is proud to attain such a privileged position. To assist the LGMA in pursuing its goal to boost reading and literacy across Ireland is an honour."

330 library branches and 29 mobile libraries across all 31 of the Republic's local authorities will benefit from the accuracy, consistency and extended content offered by BDS metadata.

Public libraries across Ireland provide a range of learning and cultural services. They receive over 17 million visits per year providing access to more than 12 million physical books, eBooks and eAudiobooks.

The LGMA, established in 2012, is a state agency. It provides collaborative support for the coordinated and cost-effective delivery of local government services and policy in Ireland.

"Our aim is to inspire, connect and empower communities through our libraries – helping to improve literacy and access to books and digital formats for everyone," says Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development, LGMA. "We are happy to be working with BDS to meet the needs of local libraries and visitors and enable our staff to spend more time adding value where it is needed most."

Find out more about Ireland's library service at https://www.librariesireland.ie/