An official sod-turning ceremony has marked the commencement of construction on the new Library & Learning Commons at the University of Galway.

The new Library & Learning Commons, an €80 million capital project, will cover approximately 10,000m² and offer advanced technology, facilities for collaboration, innovation and creativity, a diversity of learning spaces, high levels of comfort and accessibility, seamless access to collections, and expert learning support for students throughout their academic journey.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, was present yesterday (May 27) at the sod-turning event to perform the ceremonial duties.

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Welcoming the start of the project, Minister Lawless said: "This is a really important development for higher education in the West of Ireland. I have committed significant funding of €15 million, under the Higher Education Strategic Infrastructure Fund (HESIF), to support the delivery of this state-of-the-art Library & Learning Commons.

"The new building will provide over 2,200 study spaces and accommodate an additional 600 students, aligning with future enrolment projections and supporting the ambitions of Project Ireland 2040. It will greatly enhance the learning environment for current and future generations."

Minister Lawless concluded: "The West of Ireland deserves world-class infrastructure that meets the needs of our learners and supports our economy. Today marks another step forward in delivering it."

This project is being delivered under the Higher Education Strategic Infrastructure Fund and has an expected completion date in Q1 2027.

Photo credit: www.universityofgalway.ie