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Kildare County Council has marked the start of building the new Clane Community Library, an initiative launched by Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer TD.
The scheme will deliver a modern public library and community hub for Clane and the wider area, supporting the town’s ongoing expansion.
The facility will broaden access to collections, literacy supports and digital services, with open-plan zones for adults, young adults and children, maker spaces and sensory facilities, flexible study areas, public PCs, and rooms for events, exhibitions and cultural programming. The plan responds directly to local calls for longer opening hours, enhanced services and contemporary shared spaces.
Replacing the current part-time library in a 98 m² leased unit that no longer meets national standards or local needs, the new building will serve more than 12,000 people in Clane and its hinterland. Three primary and two secondary schools lie within a ten-minute walk.
Deaton Lysaght Architects lead the design team, with M.L. Quinn appointed as main contractor. The total project cost is €3.25 million, comprising €1.9 million from the Department under the Libraries Capital Programme and €1.35 million from Kildare County Council.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD said: "I am delighted to be here today in Clane to officially mark the commencement of construction on this state-of-the-art public library for the Clane community. Libraries are the cornerstone of all our communities - providing a space where everyone can access knowledge, connect with others, and pursue lifelong learning without financial barriers."
Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Kildare County Council, said: "Clane has seen exceptional growth in recent decades and this new library is a direct response to what the community has told us it needs, more space, better access and a wider range of services. We are delighted to reach this construction milestone and to work in partnership with the Department in delivering this €3.25 million investment for the people of Clane and its surrounding areas."
