Kildare County Council has hosted a ceremony to officially open the new Naas Library and Cultural Centre marking the end of a four year conservation, construction and renovation project.

The project which transformed the library and cultural centre was part funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund as part of Project Ireland 2024, with an initial €4.4 million allocation contributing towards the design, construction and fit-out of the library.

Since opening in January this year, the new Library and Cultural Centre has become a prominent focal point within the community, not only as a state-of-the-art library but as a hub of culture and a much-used public space in the heart of the town.

Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Councillor Daragh Fitzpatrick said: "This is a very special occasion for the community of Naas, and the county of Kildare. This building has a long and rich history, and the library plays a very important role in this community. It is fitting that it now returns to its original location.

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"This building is a protected structure of huge historical and architectural significance. Conservation of its heritage value has been to the forefront of its redevelopment. This facility will be an amazing asset that will provide new spaces for cultural, educational, and social events. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the elected members and staff of Kildare County Council, and in particular Gillian Allen, County Librarian and all the library staff who have been involved in the development of this special project."

Naas Library & Cultural Centre includes 1,194.77 sqm of indoor space and 1,055 sqm of outdoor public space. The new library offers study and workspaces, 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.

The courtyard includes a vibrant market square, an open-air workshop zone, an amphitheatre and a tranquil sensory garden, fostering connections and interactions.

Furthermore, the versatile makerspace is furnished with cutting-edge tools such as 3D printers, sewing machines, a laser cutter and a vinyl cutter, aimed at igniting imagination and ingenuity. Various events and workshops will be hosted here to highlight the capabilities of these tools. Within the Sensory Space, visitors can explore a Cubbie Sensory booth and engage with an interactive Tovertaefel light projector.

Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Kildare County Council said: "I would like to thank the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage for the funding provided under the Ireland 2040 programme, to help bring this important project to life. The new Naas Library and Cultural Centre reflects the value placed on public libraries, and the role they play in the community, by Kildare County Council.

"Our aim for this new library and cultural centre was that it would become a destination for people to come to learn, study, meet, relax, and be inspired. I’m very proud that our team in Kildare County Council, in collaboration with the many fantastic contractors who worked on the project, have delivered that."