‘Chill out’ at The Loft: a space for teens in Tallaght Library

A NEW area of Tallaght Library called The Loft, which is targeted at teens and provides them with a variety of creative outlets, was launched in the library on Saturday, June 10.

The Loft is described as a “chill out” space for young people and has pool tables, and will play host to DJ workshops, and open mic and comedy clubs going forward.

The launch is being held as part of Cruinniú na nOg – the national day of free creativity for children and young people – and will be led by the Mayor of South Dublin, Cllr Emma Murphy.

Liz Corry, senior executive librarian at South Dublin Libraries, told The Echo: “We are trying to engage with locals and give them a space to meet and connect with their peers, a safe space where they can also be introduced to all the wonderful free services libraries have to offer.

“Teens are neither adults or children and they can find it hard to find a place to go and connect.

“Our Library Development Plan, ‘Our Library Our Future’, highlights that teens are a group we need to reach out to, this space allows us to do this.”

A key highlight of the launch will be the unveiling of two graffiti pieces for The Loft, created by local young people with the guidance and assistance of local Belgard illustrator Ashwin Chacko.

On June 21 at 6.30pm, The Loft will play host to its first gig, with music being provided by all-female rock band The Hex, composed of teenage girls from the local area with a flair for music.