Main building works at Mayfair Library in Kilkenny programmed for completion in May

The main building works at the Mayfair Library are programmed for completion by the end of May, local councillors have been informed.

This will be followed by the fit out of the library with all the necessary operational infrastructure, including shelving, stock and IT systems.  It is expected that the library will be open to the public in the late summer. 

Senior Engineer Tony Lauhoff provided the update at this month's meeting of Kilkenny County Council.

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The Library was originally earmarked for a January 2023 opening but difficulty with Covid-19 and the acquisition of building materials pushed that date back.

"Development of the adjoining street and park will open up access to the whole site," Lauhoff added.

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The new library will be an important feature in the city and will offer services and facilities which include dedicated areas for children, teenagers and general leisure reading, computer and study areas, meeting rooms and exhibition areas.

Funding in the sum of €4.695m for the project was provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development with matched funding of €1.44m from the local authority's own resources.

In addition, the redevelopment of the Mayfair Building includes the completion of the landscaping works to Horse Barrack Lane and the development of a pedestrian plaza area between the building and Parliament Street.

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The existing Carnegie Library on John’s Quay is also a very significant building for Kilkenny City and Kilkenny County Council plan to improve and protect it - and to keep it as a library space.