Libraries NI and The Open University Libraries Leading the Way in Learning

Libraries NI and The Open University: Libraries Leading the Way in Learning

Photo of Tara Craig, Assistant Director for Marketing and Communications at The Open University

Libraries have always been places of endless learning opportunities and Libraries NI is proud to be at the forefront of accessible education through its long-standing partnership with The Open University (OU). Together, we’re opening doors to learning, breaking down barriers, and giving people the tools and confidence to succeed.
 
With 96 branch libraries and two heritage libraries across Northern Ireland, Libraries NI offers trusted, welcoming spaces where learners of all ages can access free resources, connect with support, and focus on their personal and educational goals. It’s this trusted environment that makes libraries an important resource for many OU students, especially those balancing study with work, family and other commitments.
 
Tara Craig, Deputy Director at The Open University in Ireland, recently shared her appreciation for the partnership in a short video for Libraries NI. 

Our students often tell us that libraries are more than buildings, they're calm, welcoming spaces where they can focus, feel supported, and be part of something bigger; quote from Tara Craig, Deputy Director at The Open University in Ireland

 Tara explains that Libraries NI’s commitment to being a visible, inclusive and accessible service is central to this work. Through library computers, she says, anyone can explore the OU’s OpenLearn platform, offering free courses and learning tools to help people build skills, discover new interests or prepare for further study.

students studying for The OU at the libraryPhoto: Students of the Open University at the library

Libraries NI and the OU also extended their support to younger learners during exam season, hosting Study Break sessions in Lisburn and Omagh libraries for local GCSE and A-Level students. The relaxed 30-minute workshops combined practical revision tips, wellbeing advice and free refreshments—helping students manage stress, feel more focused and leave better equipped to take on the exams ahead.

This is the power of libraries in action—quietly, confidently making a difference every day. By supporting independent learners, school pupils and everyone in between, Libraries NI is helping to build more confident, connected communities across Northern Ireland.

Watch Tara Craig’s video below to hear how Libraries NI is making a difference for Open University students.