Galway libraries reveal plan to help public with readings of a different kind!
Galway Public Libraries have been to the forefront of lending reading material for over a century – but from the end of this month they are offering a free option on readings of a different kind…and the results could save your life.
Because the Library Service will offer a new Radon Monitor Loan Scheme, enabling members of the public to borrow digital radon monitors to check radon levels in their homes.
The initiative was launched in Oranmore Library recently, by the Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr. David Collins.
And the radon monitors will be available in ten branch libraries – Galway City, Ballybane, Westside, Oranmore, Loughrea, Tuam, Ballinasloe, Portumna, Clifden and Leabharlann na Ceathrún Rua.
It is a Healthy Ireland at Your Library initiative, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to raise awareness of radon and promote proactive health measures.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate indoors.
Health statistics show that it is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Ireland after smoking, leading to about 350 lung cancer cases in Ireland each year.
Borrowing a monitor – in the same way as you borrow a book for three weeks – will give a good indication of radon levels in a home.
Through this scheme, library users can borrow a digital radon monitor just like a book, gaining a snapshot of radon levels in their homes.
We’re delighted to offer this important service to our community
To get an accurate measurement of radon levels, a three-month test is required – so, while not a replacement for the recommended three-month test, the monitors offer a valuable first step in identifying potential radon issues.
“We’re delighted to offer this important service to our community,” said Elizabeth Keane, County and City Librarian.
“In Galway Public Library service, we’re here to support people and the wider community in practical and meaningful ways.
“Libraries are important community hubs, and our services have expanded far beyond the traditional.
"This is an important health initiative being provided through our libraries, and we encourage people to avail themselves of it.
“It’s a simple step that could make a real difference to your health and wellbeing,” she continued.
The initiative has already been a big success in Cork County, Wexford and Wicklow library services and is now expanding to a host of additional libraries and local authorities across the country.
EPA Director Patrick Byrne said that radon was a serious health risk, and they recommended that everyone test for radon in their home.
“We are pleased to work with libraries to make radon monitors freely available in communities across Ireland,” he said.
“This is an important opportunity to help people take a simple, practical first step to find out about radon levels in their home and make informed choices to reduce the risk to their health,” he added.
You can visit www.radon.ie to get further information on testing your home and reducing high levels to keep you and your family safe.