Library usage across Kilkenny soars as plea made for more funding
The impact of investment was particularly evident in Kilkenny at the Mayfair Library and new library in Thomastown
A number of Kilkenny councillors have called for increased investment in the county’s library book fund, as new figures show it remains more than €150,000 below the national benchmark.
A presentation to the latest plenary meeting of Kilkenny County Council showed the book fund has increased from €113,000 in 2020 to €263,000 in 2026.
However, the national target presented to members is €416,640, leaving a shortfall of €153,640.
Multiple elected members called for the fund to be increased towards the national standard.
‘MASSIVE IMPACT’
Cllr Deirdre Cullen highlighted the potential impact of further funding, saying: “A small investment can have a massive, massive impact.”
Cllr Maria Dollard said investment in facilities needed to be properly supported.
“We have the facilities now, the least we can do is properly support it,” she said, adding that “libraries are the best space for people in the margins.”
The calls came as councillors heard of significant growth in library use. Between January and August 2026, 485,152 items were borrowed and 224,890 library visits recorded, while 33,513 people attended events.
The impact of investment was particularly evident at Mayfair and Thomastown.
In its first three months, Mayfair recorded 59,427 visits, while Thomastown recorded 16,009 visits.
Meanwhile, Cllr David Fitzgerald sought an update on plans for a new purpose-built library in Callan.
Fiona Deegan told members the project was at design stage and was “ready to go for an RRDF funding application in 2027”.
Callan is listed alongside the Carnegie Library and mobile library among the service’s current projects.
Meanwhile, weekly opening hours across Kilkenny’s library network have also increased substantially, rising from 312.25 hours in 2022 to 424 hours in 2026.
Digital engagement has also become a significant part of the service. Between January and August this year, online resources were used 297,249 times, while 11,232 My Open Library sessions were recorded.