Newly upgraded library in Kilbeggan to reopen this week

After a lengthy closure to facilitate enhancement and upgrade works, Kilbeggan Library will reopen to the public this Thursday (November 20).

The changes to the facility will facilitate the introduction, from next month, of the 'My Open Library' service, which allows library members access to the building outside of regular opening hours.

Westmeath Libraries said the staff were "looking forward to welcoming old and new members into the refreshed bright and inviting space".

The library service said the refurbishment work transformed the facility into a modern library encouraging reading, creativity, learning and connections.

Westmeath Libraries said the opening hours will be limited initially "in order to ensure smooth opening and operations, and to allow staff to finalise new systems".

The library will be open between 10am and 5pm this Thursday and Friday, and during the same hours from Monday to Friday next, November 24-28.

Regular staffed hours will come into operation from 9.40am on Monday, December 1, and the 'My Open Library' service will commence from Monday, December 8.

"Westmeath Libraries looks forward to welcoming visitors to the Library and staff will be on hand to answer questions," the service stated.

The refurbishment of the 200-year-old building in which the library is located was funded by Westmeath County Council and the Department of Rural & Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

The redesign was overseen by Westmeath County Council’s in-house architectural team.