Plans for a new Community Library in Boyle, Co Roscommon, have taken a key step forward.

Funding of €4.35 million was pledged for the project by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD.

The project will tie in with existing large-scale Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) investment in the town, on foot of Boyle 2040.

Boyle Community Library will be built on a brownfield site in the town centre, creating a key landmark and a new modern and innovative cultural and community space. The project is being funded as part of Our Rural Future, the Government's ambitious five-year policy for Rural Development.

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The new library, located to the rear of the former Royal Hotel, will face out onto the river walk, in the King House Cultural Quarter. It will be accessible, flexible and suitable for the provision of innovative library services into the future.

The site is adjacent to the RRDF Category 1 project at the former Royal Hotel and in the King House Cultural Quarter also supported under RRDF Category 2. 

Alongside traditional library services, the facilities offered in the new multi-functional library with include meeting, workshop and event spaces, technology and research spaces and indoor and outdoor sensory spaces. The new library will operate as a My Open Library, providing a free, accessible, town centre cultural and community resource, available 14 hours per day, 365 days per year.

Welcoming the news, Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council said: "The investment will strengthen the cultural and economic development of Boyle, building on the existing regeneration taking place in the surrounding area.

"I congratulate the Elected Members and Boyle Town Team for their ongoing support and the Regeneration Team, Roscommon County Council their commitment and dedication to the development of this project and for the delivery of RRDF projects across the county."