Exciting new chapter for Trim Library

Library service is moving to Mill Street for the duration of the work which will see a major new performance space at the site of the existing library on High Street

Work on the Trim Library and Cultural Centre, which will see a major new performance space at the site of the existing library and old Methodist Chapel on High Street, is to start shortly.

The library service is moving around the corner to Mill Street for the duration of the work which is expected to take around 18 months to complete

The new facility will see the development of a theatre space with 220-240 seats on the site of the library and old church on High Street.

The library will be housed on the ground floor of the new facility, which will take in the old library and the church with a courtyard and some shared library/ performance spaces.

Barbara Mellerick, chair of Trim Drama Group said they were abolutely thrilled to hear the work is going ahead.

“It is such exciting news in the middle of all the doom and gloom that has decimated the arts, including amateur performances. “In 18 months time we will have a whole new community space, theatre and library in Trim, which will be wonderful for our drama group, Trim Musical Society and the other groups around.

“It makes all the campaigning worthwhile. I'd like to thank all those who campaigned and those who signed our petition in 2016 and the county council who were a great support,” she said.

Meath County Librarian Ciaran Mangan explained the library is moving to a former wool shop on Mill Street for the duration of the works and the move would take place over the coming weeks.

“Because of the Level Five national restrictions, we are closed to the public at the moment and are operating an online service only. When the restrictions are lifted we will be operating as normally from Mill Street,”he said, Mr Mangan said he was looking forward to the new library facilities when they return to High Street.

“It will give us the opportunity to work with the theatre and there will be additional space available to us,” he said.

Cllr Noel French welcomed the news saying Trim musical and drama groups set the highest of standards and they deserve a proper place to exhibit their skills.

“I want to thank the T-Act group for their work in highlighting the need for this space.

“Following the closure of the Trim Town Hall as a venue in 2011 the town has been missing a venue to highlight the drama and musical groups.

“We need an artistic, dramatic and musical hub for the town and area. There is a need for audition, rehearsal and performance space in the town. Many community groups also require meeting facilities. It is going on a long time and it still has a way to go but this is one good step forward,” said Cllr French.

The new library facilities will include a library study space and support area as well as meeting rooms.

There will also be a foyer for the theatre on the ground floor, a box office and toilets.

The main auditorium, with stage and retractable seating, will be on the second floor and will include a balcony with sound desk. With the seats retracted it can be used as a large meeting space.

The old church will become a space for meetings for about 40 people or may be used as exhibition space. There are also two small meeting rooms for community use. The meeting rooms and old church can be used as backstage facilities for shows and performances.

There will be additional rooms for library use – technology and study areas.