Questions raised over ‘not up to standard’ library in Limerick

QUESTIONS have been raised over the quality of Askeaton Library as it is “not up to standard” compared to other libraries under the jurisdiction of Limerick City and County Council (LCCC).

Askeaton Library is located in an old building on the quay just off of Main Street opposite the River Deel.

Fianna Fáil councillor for the Municipal District of Adare/Rathkeale, Kevin Sheahan, has previously criticised the condition of Askeaton Library and urged the council to purchase the building and extend it to make it a more acceptable library for local residents.

At the monthly meeting of the Municipal District of Adare/Rathkeale, Cllr Sheahan asked for the county librarian to attend the meeting to prepare a detailed plan for the future of Askeaton Library.

Previously it was suggested that the upper floor of the library in Askeaton be converted into an arts space and transition the library into a dual-use building.

According to LCCC, Feeney McMahon Architects were appointed to produce a design proposal for the library. Upon inspection of the site, they submitted a number of recommendations.

They outlined that the building was not suitable for dual use, the use of the building as a public library will not yield any increase or improvement in usable space as universal public access is not possible to the upper floor. They also outlined that the most optimal solution is to convert the building to accommodate an arts facility only.

There have also been talks for Askeaton Library to take over the Bank of Ireland building which shut its doors in October of 2021. The building was purchased by LCCC in 2022.

Limerick City and County Librarian Damien Brady said: “In May 2022 we had a new request to give consideration to use the recently purchased Bank of Ireland building in the square for library purposes and possibly arts purposes. In response, library staff visited the building and found that in terms of location, size, and accessibility the bank site has greater potential to offer an enhanced library and arts service.

“However, in recent months, a call to provide accommodation for Ukrainian refugees led to the designation for the moment of this building for this use. It is also noted that Askeaton Library is up and running and will continue to be for the future,” Mr Brady added.