Membership boom for Moate library

One of the success stories of the year gone by was the move undertaken by Moate Library from their restricted premises at the old Courthouse to their fine knew location on the Main Street, in the premises formerly known as the Central Garage and long associated with the Mc Cormack family. The new library is bright, spacious and a great addition to the town. The facilities on offer include three public computer terminals, a photocopying and printing service and of course a vast array of books to suit all tastes. Some 2,500 extra books were added to the stock for the big move and this number continues to increase with each passing week. The new premises opened to the public on December 9 last and the official party was held on December 18. Librarian Lorna Farrell explained that Moate Library has added 82 new adult members and 96 juvenile members to its membership list in the last year. Now that it is no longer out of public sight, there has been a rise in interest in the service thanks to its new prime location which helps to increase awareness and accessibility. Lorna herself deserves great credit for her regular promotions and attractions which when combined with her enthusiastic approach makes people feel very welcome in Moate Library. Classes from the Convent Girls Primary School, St Oliver Plunkett"s Boys School and Rosemount National School have already called in to visit and Lorna would welcome visits from other schools and classes, but please remember to prearrange the visit and avoid any mix up. Members Mark and Aisling Sheridan expressed their delight with the new facility, when speaking to the Westmeath Independent last week. They were bringing off a selection of books and DVD"s to keep them going for the next three weeks. The library also has a good selection of books on audio, tapes and cd"s, ideal for those with failing eyesight or those who spend many hours travelling in a car, van, tractor or truck. The extended opening hours are as follows, Monday, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 5.30pm; Tuesday, 1pm to 5.30pm and 6ppm to 8pm; Wednesday, 11am to 1pm; Thursday, 1pm to 5.30pm and 6pm to 8pm; Friday, 10.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. For all enquiries you can contact Lorna at 6481888 during the stated opening hours.