Dublin City Council has confirmed plans with the Inchicore Library Advisory Group, which includes residents and councillors, to renovate the building and install a lift.
Following a meeting with the advisory group, Sinn Féin councillor Máire Devine said: “The good news is that a report has confirmed the planning is approved, and we don’t need to make significant changes to ensure universal access.
“Now, we’re just waiting for a schedule of works to be provided. In the meantime, who is going to use this building?
“We have lots of community groups displaced by the closure of facilities for arts, culture, education and heritage, and everyone is eager to share their opinions and requests for the building’s future use, ensuring it’s divided equitably.”
The library originally closed in March 2020, with services relocated elsewhere. Since then, the building has fallen into disrepair and the building’s roof collapsed due to a burst pipe in 2022.
Dublin City Council initially planned to install a ramp to improve accessibility for all. In 2020, councillors approved a proposal to refurbish the building, add an extension, and improve accessibility with a ramp and platform lift.
However, the works were delayed when the council couldn’t commit to the quoted prices for the project. In the meantime, a temporary library has been set up at Richmond Barracks.
A report in April said architects were reviewing existing plans to make the building accessible while maintaining its historic character. They intend to stay within the council’s approved planning permissions and have re-engaged with the previous design team to manage costs.
Cllr Devine said the council’s current approach allows for changes without needing new planning approval. Instead of building a ramp at the front, they plan to install a lift at the side of the building.
In April, the council also launched a study to assess the future of the library and nearby buildings, though the findings have yet to be shared.
Michael O’Flanagan, secretary of the advisory group, says more than 10 different groups are interested in using the space, with some hoping to hold week-long exhibitions.
Discussions are still ongoing regarding who will manage the building. One proposal suggests reopening the library as an educational facility run by the Dublin 8 Community Education Centre (D8CEC).
Their plan is to use the building from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, dividing the building into two rooms. After 5pm and on weekends, the space would be available at community rates for local groups and activities such as dance, yoga and art exhibitions.
Dublin City Council has been contacted for comment.
