Dublin City Council has launched the construction tender process for the new Dublin City Library, the first phase of the Parnell Square Cultural Quarter.

Following a pre-qualification process, shortlisted contractors have been invited to submit detailed tenders, including pricing, delivery schedules, and other project information. Tender submissions are expected over the next six to eight months, after which Dublin City Council will evaluate bids to select the contractor best placed to deliver the project to specification.

"This is a significant milestone in the delivery of a world-class public library for our city," said Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam. "The new City Library will be a vibrant hub for innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning — a welcoming space for all members of our community."

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The project is funded by the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and Dublin City Council. AECOM and Hawkins\Brown were appointed in early 2023 as the project leads, with AECOM providing project management, multidisciplinary engineering, and cost consultancy services, and Hawkins\Brown serving as lead architect.

Phase 1 includes the construction of a new 6,100-square-metre city library to the rear of the existing Georgian terrace at Nos. 23–28 Parnell Square North, alongside essential works to these historic buildings. No. 26 Parnell Square North (approximately 700 sq. m) will be fully restored and returned to public use as part of the library.

This phase also involves refurbishment of the 1930s wing of the Hugh Lane Gallery and the creation of a direct link between the gallery and the new library. Subsequent phases will reinstate the remaining five Georgian houses for full public use, delivering a total of 11,000 sq. m of cultural facilities.

The project will be delivered in accordance with the highest environmental standards, incorporating sustainable design, energy efficiency, and universal accessibility. Construction is expected to commence in Q2 2026 with completion of construction anticipated by Q3 2029. Opening to the public is anticipated in Q1 of 2030.