Press Release Handy Helps Collection
Kilkenny Libraries Launch “Handy Helps” Collection to Support Independent Living
Kilkenny County Council Library Service is delighted to announce the launch of its new Handy Helps collection, a practical and accessible resource designed to support older members of the community to live more independently in their own homes.
Officially launched on Wednesday May 27th in Loughboy Library, the Handy Helps collection reflects the evolving role of public libraries as inclusive community spaces that support wellbeing, lifelong independence and quality of life; not just access to books and information.
The collection consists of a range of carefully selected aids and gadgets that assist with everyday tasks and activities. These items are grouped into 3 themed Handy Helps packs: Culinary Aids, Mobility Aids and Social Aids. Each pack contains several items and is loaned as a single unit, allowing borrowers to try the aids in their own homes for up to eight weeks.
Items in the Culinary Aids pack include lightweight foam-handled cutlery, an incurve plate surround to help keep food on the plate, a bottle opener, jar opener and contour turner to reduce strain on hands when gripping or turning objects.
The Mobility Aids pack supports independent dressing and movement, with items such as a button hook and zip puller, a plastic shoehorn, and a sock aid. Ideal for people with limited mobility, flexibility or hand dexterity.
The Social Aids pack includes everyday supports such as a doorknob turner, a plug pull, a two-key turner and a portable car assist handle, helping to make daily tasks safer and more manageable.
Each Handy Helps pack includes clear information sheets explaining how to use and care for each item, allowing borrowers to make informed decisions about what best suits their needs.
Speaking about the initiative, Kilkenny Library Age Friendly Coordinator Alan Dunne said: “Libraries play a vital role in supporting people at every stage of life. The Handy Helps collection is about empowering people to maintain independence, dignity and confidence in their own homes. By making these aids freely available through our libraries, we are removing barriers, ensuring everyone has access to practical supports when they need them.”
The Handy Helps items were chosen by Kilkenny County Council Library Service’s Age Friendly Coordinator, with expert input from Kilkenny’s Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme and HSE Occupational Therapy services.
This initiative forms part of Kilkenny County Council Library Service’s Age Friendly Programme and underlines the library’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion and community wellbeing.
Handy Helps packs are available to borrow from Mayfair Library, Loughboy Library, Thomastown Library and Castlecomer Library.
For more information, please contact: Alan Dunne – Phone: 056 7794176 Email: alan.dunne@kilkennycoco.ie
Senior Executive Librarian Aisling Kelly, Librarian Alan Dunne, Cathaoirleach Mary Hilda Cavanagh, Director of Services Fiona Deegan, Mayor John Coonan and Occupational Therapist Manager Carlow / Kilkenny Community Services, Regina Doyle at the launch of the Handy Helps collection in Loughboy Library on Wednesday 27th May.