A new chapter for Donabate as Library opens at Ballisk House
A €2m refurbishment of Ballisk House has transformed the former credit union building into a modern, accessible community space.
Fingal Libraries is delighted to announce the opening of the new Donabate Library in Ballisk House. It comes following a €2 million refurbishment project which began in January 2025 and has transformed Ballisk House into a modern, welcoming public building at the heart of the community.
The new library was officially opened today by the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, along with Chief Executive of Fingal County Council AnnMarie Farrelly, County Librarian Betty Boardman, County Architect Fionnuala May, the Director of Economic, Community and Cultural Development, John Quinlivan, and children from Gaelscoil na Mara.
Fingal County Council purchased Ballisk House in 2022, after the closure of Donabate Credit Union. The new library provides an improved, accessible space for reading, learning and community engagement and represents a significant investment in local services for the growing Donabate area.
The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Tom O’Leary said: “It is a pleasure to celebrate a milestone for Donabate and for Fingal, the opening of our new public library in Ballisk House. This remarkable new space will serve the people of Donabate for generations to come.”
Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly, said: “This building speaks to Fingal’s belief in the value of libraries as dynamic, forward-looking spaces that respond to evolving technologies and the needs of a growing community. We are committed to investing in our communities and creating places where everyone feels welcome.”
Among the many exciting features of this new facility is the introduction of the My Open Library service which is expected to begin shortly. With opening hours extended from 8am to 10pm, 365 days a year, this service gives library members the freedom to use the space beyond normal staffed hours including Sundays.
County Librarian Betty Boardman said: “Fingal Libraries looks forward to welcoming the community to this new space to read, discover, learn, and connect. Libraries are hubs of community life. The modern events and meeting room in this building will facilitate a vibrant programme of cultural and educational events designed to inspire, support, and bring people together.”
County Architect Fionnuala May said: “The new library spans two beautifully designed floors, thoughtfully planned to welcome everyone. The installation of a lift ensures that the building is accessible to all, reflecting our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and universal access.”
The celebration to mark the official opening of the new library included a circus performer, the Bohemian Strings string quartet and a magic show for the children of Gaelscoil na Mara from Reuben the Entertainer.
Director of Economic, Community and Cultural Development, John Quinlivan, said: “The opening of the new library marks the completion of phase one of a two-phase project. Planning for phase two — the expansion of this building and the enhancement of its facilities - will begin in early 2026 and is already at feasibility stage.”
