New chapter for Bantry library as conservation work gets underway
Pictured are Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Danny Collins and Emer O’Brien, County Librarian, Cork County Council Library Service. Also Michael Plaice and Denis Murphy, Bantry Library. Pic: Brian Lougheed
CONSERVATION work is set to get underway at Bantry Library pending a €259,920 grant from the Heritage Council.
Cork County Council successfully applied for the Historic Towns Initiative 2023 grant in the hope of undertaking much-needed refurbishment to preserve the library's unique features.
Known in the area as a building of architectural interest, Bantry Library has played a central role in the community for more than 50 years.
Its signature bow-shaped window is one of its best-known features and has caught the eye of locals and visitors alike.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Independent Cllr Danny Collins described what the grant means to the community.
"The conservation works being undertaken will highlight a nationally significant asset and enhance Bantry's varied streetscape," he said.
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey said everyone in the community is looking forward to seeing the building restored to its former glory.
"As Bantry Library approaches its 50th anniversary, we are committed to safeguarding this important building," Mr Lucey said.
"As a protected structure within an Architectural Conservation Area, Cork County Council recognizes its responsibility to preserve and protect Bantry Library for future generations.
Bantry Library was initially designed by Cork County Council architect Patrick McSweeney in 1962. However, it was a further eight years before funding was allocated to make it a reality.
Despite it not being an official council project at the time, Mr McSweeney still presented the model to a convention of librarians in Dublin who were encouraging of the idea.
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