A bright future for DLR Libraries

dlr LIBRARY REFURBISHMENT PROGRAMME

June 2011

Dún Laoghaire- Rathdown Libraries has embarked on an extensive programme to improve the quality of the service. Plans include building a new Central Library and Cultural Centre at Moran Park as well as redesigning and extending older library buildings to create more welcoming and revitalised civic spaces for the people of the county.

Moran Park Library
Designed by Carr Cotter Naessens Architects, the proposed four storey building overlooking Dún Laoghaire harbour, will be a flagship facility for the county. Set in landscaped parkland with pedestrian walkways, the building will include the DLR libraries Administrative Headquarters, the DLR Arts Office, Cultural Spaces with an exhibition gallery and café, library book collections for adults and children and the DLR Local History Collection.

Tenders for the construction of the library have been received and are currently being assessed.

Library Refurbishment Programme
The Council’s Library Refurbishment Programme continues to provide improved amenities with disability access. It is the intention to make library buildings more visible and transparent for both those using the libraries and for those passing by. A programme of conservation and refurbishment of the protected Carnegie library buildings in this county is underway. Many of these buildings are over one hundred years old and the aim is to preserve the unique facades and features of the buildings, while at the same time modernising interiors, improving access and creating a reader-friendly, stock-centred environment.

Blackrock Library
Built in 1905, Blackrock Library is a designated Protected Structure included in Schedule 1 of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Development Plan 2010-2016.

Architects McCullough Mulvin were appointed by Dún Laoghaire VEC to design an expanded new library as part of a third level educational complex on the site of the Town Hall, Carnegie library and VEC College in Blackrock. Construction commenced in October 2010. All work on the site ceased in May 2011 and the construction company has since gone into receivership.

The VEC is committed to the project and will tender for the completion of the building programme within the next few months.

Blackrock Public Library Service continues to operate from temporary premises in Valentine House, Temple Road. On completion of the project, the library service will return to the refurbished Carnegie Library on Newtown Avenue.

Cabinteely Library
Built in 1912, Cabinteely library is a designated Protected Structure included in Schedule 1 of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Development Plan 2010-2016. During the past few years, the accessibility approach to the building has been enhanced with designated parking, new pathways, a ramp with handrails and a new wheelchair accessible information desk.

A landscaping project is currently underway to enhance the grounds of the library.

Dalkey Library
The library in Dalkey opened in 1989 and replaced the 1902 Carnegie Library.

In recent years, work was carried out to improve accessibility in the building. A new lift and information desk were provided. The exterior of the building was painted in keeping with the heritage colours of the streetscape.

Over the next few years, we will continue to try and improve the internal layout of the building.

Deansgrange Library
Opened in 1982, this distinctive octagonal building has been at the heart of the community for almost thirty years. The library service at Deansgrange library was recently upgraded with the installation of two self-service kiosks and a new information desk. The introduction of self-service has proved popular with the public and usage in the first four months reached 65%.

This was a first step in a planned programme to extend and improve facilities in the library. An exciting new extension is planned for 2011/12 in accordance with Objective C3 of the Deansgrange Local Area Plan 2010-2020. The proposed plan seeks to enhance the entrance to the library, provide exhibition space, accessible toilets and improved facilities for members of the public and staff. The external area to the front of the library will also be upgraded to provide a landscaped plaza.

It is proposed to tender for the construction of this project over the Summer, construction could commence before the end of the year.

Dundrum Library
Built in 1914, Dundrum Library is a designated Protected Structure included in Schedule 1 of the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Development Plan 2010-2016. In the past year, an accessible toilet for the public was provided and a landscaping project is currently underway to enhance the entrance and grounds of the building.

Building work to improve the layout of the library and to provide a new accessible information desk will commence this summer. It is proposed to introduce self-service later this year.

Shankill Library
Built in 1912, Shankill Library is a designated Protected Structure included in Schedule 1 of the Dún Laoghaire – Rathdown County Council’s Development Plan 2010-2016. Recently the leaded windows were restored with the aid of a Conservation grant for the Department of Environment Heritage & Local Government. Some modifications to the garden were carried out, shrubs were cut back and new fencing was provided.

The building has been redecorated and the layout of the library revised to provide more space for the public to browse and relax. A new information desk, comfortable seating and the relocation of internet facilities have upgraded the facilities at Shankill Library.

Stillorgan Library
Following extensive renovation, Stillorgan Library re-opened to the public in April 2011 and the staff welcomes the return of library members. A new ramp and entrance, new flooring, replacement windows, a new accessible information desk, an accessible toilet and improved staff areas have greatly improved the building. The removal of internal partitions and the revised layout has generally opened up the library to create more space in the public areas.

The introduction of Self- Service kiosks in July will finally complete the refurbishment project.