Read all about it! Kilkenny has a brand new library!

Kilkenny bookworms have a new home!

The city’s brand new Mayfair Library was officially opened by Minister Heather Humphreys. The library, built on the site of the old Mayfair Ballroom, has been transformed into a major public facility with more than 1,800 square metres of community library space available over two floors.

The project was funded by Minister Humphrey's Department of Rural and Community Development and Kilkenny County Council representing an investment of just under €7.2m.

The bright and light-filled Mayfair Library reflects what a 21st Century library should be with comfortable seating and browsing areas, dedicated community exhibition space, programming and events throughout the year, public internet access, printing and scanning facilities, makerspace with 3D printing and scanning, sewing machines and more.

The facility will operate as a ‘My Open Library’ space available for use to registered users for up to 98 hours per week making it an accessible space for study and contemplation at the times that suit people the most.

The facilities at the new Mayfair library will allow for the continued expansion of library services in Kilkenny representing an investment in the county’s communities and citizens.

Minister Humphreys at the official opening of the Mayfair Library Kilkenny with children from fourth class at St John’s Senior School

New buildings and capital investment in the Kilkenny Library service is ongoing with the official opening of the Mayfair Library, the commencement of construction of a new library building in Thomastown and the proposed development of a new facility in Callan town centre. This capital investment will increase both the quality and usage of libraries across Kilkenny.

The library will open for the first time to the public tomorrow (Thursday) from 10am to 8pm.