Renovated Ballagh library has dedicated spaces for children and teenagers

Ballaghaderreen Library has re-opened following the completion of renovation works at the historic Dillon House.

The library now includes a large, dedicated children’s section with seating areas, a new area for teenagers, a large collection of novels, free high-speed internet and Wi-Fi, fully accessible entrance and exits, accessible bathroom, baby changing facilities, wireless printing, lendable tablets, study spaces, leisure reading space and a community meeting room.

The project was supported by funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht under the Small Scale Capital Works scheme, the ‘My Open Library’ funding scheme, and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s Pathfinder Programme through the Midlands Energy Agency.

The opening hours have increased from 31 hours  to 35 hours per week with lunchtime opening.

The ‘My Open Library’ service will launch later this year, allowing My Open Library (MOL) members access to the library for lending/returning, internet PC access and printing 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. outside of normal staffed hours.

Visitors to the library can also enjoy the artwork of Roscommon artist Annmarie Murray who created some unique pieces for the children’s and young adult sections.

County librarian Sandra Turner said the re-opening was much anticipated: “The re-opening of this library is very important to the people of Ballaghaderreen who have always supported the library service in the town.

“I know the return of the library to Dillon House will be warmly welcomed, and I would like to thank the public for their patience and support for the duration of the project.

“Thanks also to the local elected representatives for their ongoing support and the library team who have shown great commitment to delivering and providing top quality, state of the art library in Dillon House.

“I’m sure the people of Ballaghaderreen will join the library team in taking a moment to remember Deirdre Creighton, who sadly passed away in 2022. Deirdre was a dedicated librarian who worked to deliver wonderful service over many years in Dillon House and who advocated so well for the development of library services for the town,” said Sandra.