New library opens in Moate

Last Thursday saw the dawning of a new day for the Library Service in Moate with the official opening of the library"s new home on Main Street by Chairman of Westmeath County Council Cllr Joe Whelan. Cllr Whelan explained to those present that Westmeath County Council had adopted a five year development plan for the Library Service in 2004, the primary aim of which was to enhance the range and quality of library services for the people of the county. Since then new libraries have opened in Athlone, Castlepollard, Ballycarrigy and Kilbeggan. Next year a new library will open in Mullingar and the library in Killucan was relocated to a more suitable premises in Rathwire Hall. Cllr Whelan said: 'In 2007 a total of 295,735 books and multi-media resources were borrowed via the county library network by 12,367 members and many more people availed of their local library to surf the internet, use study, facilities, read newspapers or magazines, participate in a wide range of events which take place for all ages on an ongoing basis or just to meet and chat to their neighbours and friends.' Cllr Whelan said the public library service provided a community focus and support and said they were relaxing places, as could be witnessed by the new library in Moate. There has been a library service in Moate since the 1950s and usage of the library has grown over the years and continues to grow now with 73 new members joining the new library in Moate since it opened last week. 'The new library continues to display Westmeath County Council"s ongoing commitment to the provision of quality library services for the people of this county,' said Cllr Whelan. 'It would be remiss of me, at this stage, not to express my thanks to the County Manager Danny McLoughlin, the County Librarian Mary Farrell and the Moate librarian Lorna Farrell. It really took two Farrell ladies to bring this to realisation. We are very fortunate to have a County Librarian of the calibre of Mary Farrell. I know Mary was ever conscious of the needs of Moate and I sincerely thank her for all her efforts in completing this project. As for Lorna Farrell, there are no words to describe her enthusiasm, professionalism, creativity and courtesy. Lorna has become Moate Library and this new facility is a fitting tribute to her work and above all her popularity as the Moate librarian. Lorna, the people of Moate really appreciate you and on their behalf I want to thank you for all you have done to create an interest in the library and to make it a living service through the many activities you organise.' He also thanked Sr Paul of the Sisters of Mercy, who he said had constantly reminded him of the need for this new facility.