Autumn re-opening for Kilbeggan Library

Shane King

Refurbishment works at Kilbeggan Library are making progress and remain on schedule for completion in the third quarter of 2025, according to Westmeath Libraries.

The upgrade will bring the library in line with other modern facilities across the county by introducing the My Open Library service, an initiative to allow members to access the library independently from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week.

Services available during the extended hours will include self-service borrowing and returns, study spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to public PCs.

“Refurbishment works at Kilbeggan Library are progressing well, and we’re on track to reopen in Q3 2025,” said Paula O'Dornan, senior executive librarian with Westmeath Libraries.

“The upgraded facility will include a ‘My Open Library’ service, allowing members extended access including self-service borrowing, returns, study spaces, Wi-Fi, and PC use.”

Once reopened, Kilbeggan will join Mullingar, Moate, and Castlepollard in offering this more flexible library experience, which has already been widely welcomed in those locations.

The works that have been ongoing since last year involve significant retrofitting and refurbishment of the historic library building which is a protected structure and a notable part of Kilbeggan’s streetscape.

These upgrades are said to not only enhance the library’s accessibility and usability but also secure the long-term sustainability of the building.

“We appreciate the community’s patience while this work is ongoing and we look forward to reopening with a more accessible, future-focused library,” Paula added.