The new Portlaoise Library is set to open its doors to the public this coming Tuesday, July 18 at 10am, at a reported final cost of €7 million.
The original estimate of €2.5 million has almost trebled as long delays have continuously interrupted the project and caused the cost to balloon.
An official opening ceremony will be held will take place on Monday, July 17 at 11am and will be performed by Minister Heather Humphreys.
The opening of the new library comes almost a decade after the Old Shaws site was purchased.
The new building includes a community hub space, a study space, children’s services, extensive archives, and a local studies reading room.
The ‘old’ library at Dunamaise House in Lyster Square served its final customer on Saturday, July 8.
Costs for the project have been spiralling since construction began, when it was discovered that the ground under the Shaws site was contaminated, adding €150,000 to the bill.
The project was jointly funded by the Department of Rural Community Development and the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government with additional financial under the Ireland 2040 URDF Fund.
The remainder of the project was covered by Laois County Council.
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