Local studies collections online: an investigation in Irish public libraries

Purpose: To investigate how public libraries in Ireland are using their websites to present local studies collections online. Methodology: All the websites of public libraries in Ireland were evaluated against a checklist of 50 criteria by one of the authors. An analytic description was provided of the four highest-ranking websites and semi-structured interviews were held with staff in these library authorities. Findings: Several interesting trends in Irish local studies and their online presentation were identified. Overall the websites were well-presented and had a strong sense of branding. Users of these websites typically come from the Irish diaspora in Europe, the US and Australia. Library 2.0 ‘tools’ had been adopted by three of the four authorities investigated, adding value to their websites. Recommendations for future developments are included. Originality/Value: This research should add to the relatively sparse literature available on local authority local studies websites.