Question raised over study facilities at this Kildare library ahead of exam season
The matter was queried by a local councillor
A local councillor recently asked Kildare County Council (KCC) about its plans for study facilities at one County Kildare library.
Sinn Féin Cllr Noel Connolly submitted the query at the latest Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, which took place on Wednesday, May 20 last.
Cllr Connolly, who appeared at the meeting by virtual means, asked KCC the following question about Newbridge Library, which is currently temporarily located at Liffey Lodge in Newbridge: “Can KCC confirm what mitigation is planned for students and adult learners who relied on study facilities in Newbridge Library, particularly in advance of exam periods?”
Replying to his query, KCC said via the report it presented at the meeting: “Kildare Library Service recognises the importance of quiet, accessible study space for students and adult learners, particularly in advance of examination periods.
“Unfortunately, due to space constraints in the current temporary Newbridge Library, it has not been possible to provide dedicated study facilities.
“As a mitigation measure, library users who require study space are being directed to nearby alternative locations where appropriate facilities are available.”
KCC elaborated: “Dedicated study spaces are currently provided in both Naas Library and Cultural Centre and Kildare Town Library.
“Newbridge Library staff advise library users of these options and provides information on opening hours and availability.”
KCC also noted that the library at Liffey Lodge is a temporary location during the construction of the new Newbridge Library, County Archives and Local Studies.
According to KCC, the new library will include dedicated study areas, ‘ensuring that students and adult learners will have access to on-site study facilities once open.’
In addition, KCC said: “The library service regrets any inconvenience caused during this interim period and appreciates the understanding of library users while this temporary arrangement remains in place.”
KCC concluded by asserting that its library service ‘remains committed to supporting the educational and lifelong learning needs of the community’.
Cllr Connolly told KCC that he accepted its report.
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