News

 

New Naas Library and Cultural Centre opens its doors

Modern state-of-the-art library service in the historic Town Hall, Naas

Study and workspaces, sensory space, gallery, amphitheatre, public garden & much more

 

 

 

Friday 19^th January: Kildare County Council and Kildare Library Service are delighted to announce the opening today of the new Naas Library and Cultural Centre, in the former Town Hall, Main Street, Naas.

 

Following a 3-year, conservation, renovation and construction programme, the new facility not only provides the community with a modern cutting- edge library service but it also reinstates the historic building as a prominent focal point within the community. 

 

This new Library and Cultural Centre in the historic Town Hall will be a sustainable driver of heritage, cultural and amenity pursuits in a welcoming and attractive space at the heart of the town.

 

This transformative project was part funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) as part of Project Ireland 2040, with an initial €4.4 million allocation contributing towards the design, construction and fit-out of the library. The rest of the funding was provided by Kildare County Council as part of the Capital Development Plan.

 

Speaking on the opening day of the new Naas Library and Cultural Centre, Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Kildare County Council said; “We’re delighted to open the doors of the Naas Library and Cultural Centre.  This conservation project provides a new use for this iconic building at the heart of Naas while preserving its important history and heritage.  The facilities are state-of-the-art and will provide an exceptional library service as well as a multi-use community space and cultural event space for the growing population of Naas and its environs.  Our sincere thanks and congratulations to our Kildare Library Service team and partners who have worked on and supported this project.”

 

Acting County Librarian, Gillian Allen said “This is a very exciting day for the Library Service in Kildare and for the Naas Library Team. We are extremely happy and proud to welcome the people of Naas and the surrounding areas into their new Library & Cultural Centre. The transformation of this landmark building into a modern library will provide access to a diverse range of new resources and free services for everyone. The new library will be a space to connect, to learn, to explore and to enjoy for the community of Naas.”

 

THE SPACE

Naas Library & Cultural Centre is a library, cultural and public space in the heart of Naas. It comprises 1,275.3 sqm of indoor space and 770 sqm of outdoor public space. The outdoor space includes a market space, an outdoor workshop area, an amphitheatre and a public garden, which will provide an oasis for people to connect and engage.

 

STUDY/MEETING ROOMS & GALLERY

The new library offers study and work spaces, with WiFi and printing facilities, as well as meeting rooms that can be booked by individuals or community groups. There is also a gallery space for art and cultural exhibitions.

 

MAKERSPACE & SENSORY SPACE

The multi-purpose makerspace is equipped with 3D printers, sewing machines, vinyl cutters and more, designed to inspire innovation and creativity. Events and workshops will be held in the makerspace to showcase the equipment.

The Sensory Space includes a Cubbie Sensory booth and an interactive Tovertaefel light projector.

 

EVENTS

Naas Library & Cultural Centre will host a variety of events for all ages and interests; from bookclubs to children’s story times, STEM workshops & author talks. Sign up to our monthly events newsletter via our website for updates.

 

EXTENDED OPENING HOURS

The new Naas Library & Cultural Centre will offer extended opening hours – open 6 days a week Monday to Saturday with late openings until 8pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

 

HOW TO JOIN

Membership is free for everyone. You can register on our website www.kildarecoco.ie/library and you’ll get instant access to our online resources. Call into the library with proof of address & photo I.D. to finalise your membership.

 

 

ENDS