Calls for permanent military display at Newbridge Library

Kildare County Council is to provide a permanent military display in the new Newbridge Library to mark the importance of its historic location on the grounds of what was the Newbridge Military Barracks.

This follows representation from Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer (FG) at the December meeting of Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, held on Wednesday December 18 2024.

Welcoming a council report on her motion, Cllr O'Dwyer said the proposed new Newbridge Library was going to be a “tremendous” addition to Newbridge, and that she wanted to ensure that due consideration was given to the history of Newbridge Military Barracks in the design of the library.

It was important, she stated, to remember and acknowledge our local history, and the military continued to have a strong presence in Newbridge and had the potential to bring visitors to the town.

She said that while Newbridge is considered by many to be a retail destination, “it has so much more to offer than retail.”

She said military enthusiasts “from around the world” would be interested in visiting Newbridge if a designated space with a permanent military display were included in the library, and she was “delighted” this was going to be considered by the council.

Supporting the motion, Cllr Pat Balfe (SD) said it was “a fantastic motion” and that it was important to remember the military when it came to Newbridge.

A report issued by the council stated: 'The Library Service will commit to providing a permanent exhibition to mark the importance of the historic location of the new Newbridge Library, County Archives and Cultural Centre on the grounds of what was the Newbridge Military Barracks.

'The Design Team are aware of the importance of the heritage and history of the site and will work with the County Librarian, the County Archivist and the Local Studies Librarian to ensure a suitable acknowledgement will be designed and installed.'