Local library opens Michelle’s eyes to possibilities of university

A Dublin woman has told how a programme at her local library paved the way for her to pursue a university degree.

Michelle McGoldrick (41), who lives in Belmayne, took part in the  ‘Communiversity’ programme, in which people can attend higher education courses in the familiar surroundings of their local public library.

She is now beginning her last year of an undergraduate degree in Social Science and Policy at Maynooth University, a major milestone aided by the help of the free, pre-third level programme at her public library in Coolock.

National Public Libraries Open Day takes place this Saturday, (September 28), when non-members and members alike are encouraged to visit their local public library to explore the myriad of free services on offer.

“Communiversity at Coolock Library opened my eyes to the future in terms of getting a university degree,” said Michelle.

The programme is discussion-led and allows  local adults  complete a  free pre-university course through a local public library without the need for exams or projects.

It is run at public libraries  by Dublin City Council, NUI Maynooth and locally-based development companies often working in areas with complex needs – in this case, Northside Partnership.

It has run at public libraries across Dublin and in Kildare, Louth and Monaghan.

A committed local activist and now chair of the Belmayne Community Group, she says her learnings, combined with a renewed self-confidence, benefit her entire community.

Former childcare worker Michelle’s working life was rocked by two road accidents in 2018, but in 2021, she knew had to make a fresh start through education.

“I thought Communiversity  at Coolock Library would be a great next step for me to explore my options.

“It got me really thinking about returning to third-level.  I needed to do something different with my life.

“It was a huge step for me to think about going  to Maynooth. But Communiversity convinced me it was the right thing to do.

“We  got to visit the campus at Maynooth.  It was really exciting.  I was really looking forward to going to university.

“And I came to know the huge level of support out there for adults who want to go back to education.

“I was lucky to receive a 1916 Bursary, which is awarded to students from communities under-represented in higher education.

“Community education has played a really important role in my adult life.

“The concept meets people where they are at and offers support, encouragement and empowerment, in a way you might not even realise at the time.”

Michelle hopes to progress to a career in community development.

“With my renewed confidence, I have become Chair of Belmayne Community Group.

“Deciding to go to Maynooth for a degree is one of the best decisions I ever made.

“I am deeply involved with my community and the knowledge and experience I have gained, helps a lot.

“Not only have I benefited from going back to University,  but so has my community.”

Dr Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), said Irish libraries bring localities together.

“Libraries are connectors in the community. The local librarian will know the groups working with learning, skills, jobs seekers and those with special needs, and will be able tell you who to talk to,” he said.

According to Dr Derek Barker, Co-ordinator of Continuing Education Programmes at Maynooth University, Communiversities is  about showing adults that a third-level experience will not mirror their school days.

“Communiversity is very much about engagement, connecting people with higher education without them ever having to come on campus until they are ready.”