A new chapter has begun for local services in south Dublin with the official opening of Stillorgan Library. The modern facility replaces the former 1970s prefabricated building and expands opportunities for reading, study, digital learning and community events.
Located at St Laurence’s Park, the two-storey library was formally opened by Cllr Barry Saul, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. Minister of State Jerry Buttimer, council representatives, local officials and pupils from Oatlands Primary School attended the launch.
Stillorgan Library delivers larger spaces and modern facilities
Covering more than 1,000 square metres, the new Stillorgan Library is approximately twice the size of its predecessor. It has been designed as a welcoming civic space for residents of Stillorgan, Mount Merrion, Kilmacud, Leopardstown and nearby communities.
Facilities include:
- Flexible areas for study and learning
- Meeting rooms for community use
- Public computers and technology services
- Exhibition and cultural spaces
- An outdoor courtyard
- Improved accessibility throughout the building
The branch has historically recorded more than 100,000 visits each year. Services operated temporarily from Stillorgan Village Shopping Centre after the original library closed in October 2021 while construction took place.
A long-term investment in Dublin community life
The project received €2.5 million through successive Department of Rural and Community Development library capital programmes. It forms part of the wider regeneration of St Laurence’s Park, which also includes 88 social and affordable homes and improvements to the surrounding public realm.
Its location near the Lower Kilmacud Road and N11 junction is intended to strengthen links with public transport and active travel routes. The library is expected to support lifelong learning, creativity, digital participation and social connection as Stillorgan continues to develop as a district centre.
For residents following Dublin news, the opening is a notable example of investment in public infrastructure outside the city centre. It also highlights how libraries continue to serve as accessible spaces for education, culture and local engagement—not simply book-lending facilities.
Read more
Explore more local updates and community developments through Dublin local news and community stories from Daily Digest.
Extended access planned through My Open Library
Stillorgan Library is planned to join the My Open Library service. Once introduced, the scheme is expected to extend access from 51 hours to 98 hours each week, giving members greater flexibility outside standard staffed hours.
The branch is part of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown’s network of nine public libraries. Its expanded programme is expected to include educational activities, cultural events, digital learning and community initiatives for people of all ages.
The official public opening is scheduled for Thursday, 1 October 2026. With additional room, updated technology and a stronger connection to the surrounding regeneration project, the facility is positioned to become a central meeting point for the area.
Explore more
For further Ireland-focused reporting, visit Dublin business, community and public service news from Daily Digest.
What the opening means for Stillorgan
The new library brings together learning, culture and community services in a purpose-built environment. It offers students dedicated places to work, families opportunities to discover reading, and local groups more adaptable spaces for meetings and events.
As one of the county’s busiest branches, Stillorgan Library represents a significant public investment in the area. Its opening marks the replacement of an ageing facility with a modern, accessible hub designed to meet the community’s needs for decades ahead.
Takeaway: Stillorgan Library is now a larger and more flexible community resource, strengthening access to learning, technology and culture across south Dublin.
