Kanturk library opening delayed

HOPES that a permanent library service would be restored to Kanturk before the end of the year have been dashed after it emerged that the opening date for the facility has been delayed.

The authority unexpectedly closed the former library on the Main Street in late June of last year due to what was described as “structural concerns” in relation to the building.

In July of this year Cork County Council announced it had signed a lease for the library to be accommodated at the former Riverside Bar and Restaurant.

However, it has emerged following a meeting between local councillors and Council officials this week that the authority is not yet in a position to give a definitive opening date for the new facility.

“Unfortunately, there have been some unforeseen delays in getting the building renovated to an acceptable standard for public use,” said Cllr John Paul O’Shea, who attended this week’s meeting.

“Cork County Council is working with the owner of the building in trying to rectify these issues as soon as possible,” he said.

Cllr O’Shea said that in the meantime a refurbished mobile library will be located in the Kanturk Mart car-park, offering a five-day per week service to the local community from next Tuesday.

He said that Newmarket library will also be operating for 21 hours per week, at least, for the remainder of the year.

“The children’s book festival has not passed Kanturk by as Cork County Library Service has organised author visits for the schools, and we have a special literary day in December in the Trade Union Hall where renowned children’s authors will read and discuss books and writing with families,” said Cllr O’Shea.

While Cork North West TD Michael Moynihan (FF) has said the temporary library was welcome as an interim solution, he urged the Council to ensure the Strand St premises is opened “as soon as possible”.

“The people of Kanturk and surrounding areas deserve to have a full-time library like other towns,” he said.