Urgent need for library
By William O'Connor
A PUBLIC library is well overdue in Rathcoole village and one should be “seriously” considered by South Dublin County Council.
Already in the county, construction is under way on libraries in North Clondalkin and Castletymon, while SDCC opened state-of-the-art facilities in Ballyroan last year.
Rathcoole village
At present, residents of Rathcoole, Newcastle, Saggart and Brittas are served by a South Dublin County Council Mobile Library – a service that some residents can only avail of either once or twice a week, depending on the location, according to Frances Fitzgerald, TD.
Fitzgerald also said that, “Each of the four village districts in Dublin Mid-West has been identified as some of the fastest-growing towns in Ireland, according to the latest census figures. Yet these areas do not have important community facilities such as a public library.
“Whilst these villages have been served by a mobile community library in the past, many residents have no choice but to venture as far as Lucan, Clondalkin or Tallaght to avail of a library service. I believe the time has come to seriously consider the need for a library in these areas.
“In 2015, South Dublin County Council stated that its Libraries Department would consider Rathcoole as a potential library location, subject to a planned investment programme for library infrastructure being put in place.
She added: “Nearly four years have passed with very little movement or decisions on the issue. I believe the time has come for the council to clearly commit to a public library for the area. I will continue to work on behalf of my constituents for this very important community need.”
