Mayfair Library Celebrates First Anniversary

The Mayfair Library, a beacon of community engagement and cultural enrichment, celebrated its first anniversary on April 24, 2025. Since its grand opening, the library has welcomed over 188,000 visitors, issued more than 140,000 items, gained over 11,000 members, and hosted an impressive 875 events.

To mark this milestone, the library organized a special celebration on Friday, April 25. The festivities included events for children, light refreshments, and a unique photographic exhibition showcasing memorable moments from the past year. Visitors were invited to contribute to this evolving memory exhibition, adding their personal touch to the library’s history.

“It really has been an incredible year,” said County Librarian Josephine Coyne. “This is an example of how investment in a public library can really support and provide for the needs of the community. We are so delighted to welcome people into this vital space in the city of Kilkenny – a testament to the role the library plays in enriching lives and strengthening our city’s cultural offering.”

The Mayfair Library, formerly the Mayfair Ballroom, has been transformed into a modern library space spanning 1,800 square meters over two floors. It embodies the essence of a 21st-century library with comfortable seating and browsing areas, a dedicated community exhibition space, year-round programming and events, public internet access, printing and scanning facilities, and a makerspace equipped with 3D printing, sewing machines, and more.

“It has been a wonderful journey this past year for all the team,” said Mayfair Library manager Nuala Roche. “It’s lovely to see adults, teens, and children in the same space reading and relaxing or chatting. You will never feel lonely in the library – wander in, read a newspaper or sit at a window and watch the world go by.”

The Mayfair Library is open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, with extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings until 8 PM. As it continues to grow and evolve, the library remains committed to serving the Kilkenny community, fostering a love for reading, learning, and connection.