Construction begins on new state-of-the-art public library for Clane community

Kildare County Council has officially marked the start of construction on the new Clane Community Library. Launched by Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer TD, the development will deliver a modern public library and community facility for the town. 

The new library will significantly expand provision for collections, literacy supports and digital services. There will be open-plan areas for adults, young adults and children as well as maker spaces and sensory facilities. A flexible study space, public PCs and dedicated areas for events, exhibitions and cultural programming will also be featured, responding directly to community demand for improved opening hours, expanded services and modern shared spaces. 

The project will replace Clane’s current part-time library, operating from a 98 m² leased premises that no longer meets national standards or local needs. With the town’s population up 161% since 1996, the new facility will serve more than 12,000 people across Clane and its wider catchment, including three primary and two secondary schools within a ten-minute walk. 

The Design Team lead for the project is Deaton Lysaght Architects and M.L. Quinn has been appointed as the main contractor to deliver the build. 

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The total construction project cost is €3.25 million, supported by €1.9 million in funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht under the Libraries Capital Programme along with €1.35 million from Kildare County Council. 

Speaking at the launch on April 15, 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, added: “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.” 

Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Cllr Carmel Kelly, explained: “This project will create a welcoming civic space at the heart of Clane—somewhere to read and study, access digital services, take part in events and connect with neighbours. It reflects the strong local support for a modern library with improved opening hours and facilities that will serve children, families and older people alike for generations to come.” 

Joe Boland, Director of Services for Corporate and Cultural, Kildare County Council, stated: “Today marks an important step forward for Clane and the wider community. Public libraries are vital spaces for learning, connection and inclusion, and I am pleased to support a project that will deliver a modern, accessible facility with the capacity to meet growing demand and support people of all ages.” 

Caolan Quinn, Contracts Manager, M.L. Quinn said: “M.L. Quinn Construction are delighted to be involved in this project which will provide such an important service to the people of Clane and surrounding areas. We wish to thank both Kildare County Council and the project team who have entrusted us to deliver the project and we will endeavour to construct in a timely manner and to the highest quality.”