Library’s first Leaving Certificate study scheme supports local students

In May and June 2024, the library successfully implemented a Leaving Certificate Study Scheme designed to provide secondary school students with a high-quality study environment to prepare for their Leaving Certificate exams. The scheme was based on similar programs that have run successfully in other Irish university libraries such as DCU. This initiative was a significant component of the library's community engagement efforts, aiming to support prospective UL students during a critical phase of their education.

The scheme was open to all secondary school students at no cost, ensuring equitable access regardless of financial background. By providing a free, inclusive study space, the scheme promoted a sense of community among students and allowed students to experience the university environment, which may ease their transition to higher education.

851 applications were received with 698 students collecting their cards. Over 22,000 visits to the library were made in the 6 week period. The scheme was promoted to schools via the Access Office and 31 schools took part.

50% of students came from schools within 10km of UL but some students travelled over 50km to avail of the scheme. 16% (110 students) came from schools outside Limerick county.

12% of the students who applied were from DEIS schools and 7 of the 8 designated DEIS post primary schools in Limerick participated.

Parents were delighted with the scheme and one parent emailed the library to say, “I just wanted to congratulate the Library team on the great idea to offer Leaving Cert students temporary library cards and desks over these exam weeks.”

Following this successful roll out of the scheme, the library will offer the scheme again next year refining it based on feedback and observations.