22 October 2024
By Bryan McCarthy
bryan@TheCork.ie
Social Democrats Councillor and general election candidate Pádraig Rice has called for the redevelopment of Cork City Library to be progressed as a matter of priority. In 2021, then Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced plans for the redevelopment of the library; however, the project has stalled since.
Commenting on the matter, Cllr Rice said
“Cork City needs a new library.”
“Over three years ago, the Government announced plans to redevelop the current City Library on Grand Parade, but like so many other key projects for the city, they have failed to deliver this.
“I have a motion before Cork City Council calling on this project to be progressed as a matter of priority.
“This 21st-century library should be more than a library of books; it should be a library of things. A place where you can borrow a guitar, a sewing machine or a chessboard.
“It would be more sustainable and cost-effective if we bought less and borrowed more – the redevelopment of the city library is a golden opportunity to facilitate this shift.
“This project also has the potential to create new community spaces, cultural spaces, and additional study spaces.
“The current library isn’t fit for purpose. The roof leaks and some areas have had to be closed to the public. We can do better.
“Libraries are cathedrals of learning. We need to invest in ours!”