New chapter as libraries and museum re-open
Cavan’s libraries and Cavan County Museum have opened their doors again this week, welcoming visitors again after a long absence due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Both the library service and the museum have gone to great lengths to stay connected with their customers during an extended period of lockdown, with a stimulating and varied programme of online talks, films, and workshops aimed at helping the people of Cavan stay connected and keeping well during this pandemic.
Cavan County Library Service has continued to operate a special book delivery service for its customers during lockdown, and while County Librarian Emma Clancy says this has been a great success and a “lifeline” for many, she is looking forward to welcoming customers through the libraries’ doors.
“We are thrilled to be re-opening all of our branches for browsing, borrowing, printing, and of course a long-awaited “hello” to our customers and friends. A library is a vast store of knowledge, of imagination, and of escape, but it is also a vital community space, and it is exciting to begin the journey back towards full re-opening,” said Ms Clancy.
“We will, of course, be taking all appropriate safety measures to ensure the safety of our visitors, and we would ask that anyone availing of our facilities wear a face covering for their own safety and that of our team.”
Cavan County Museum also opened its doors this week, after an extended lockdown hiatus. Curator Savina Donohoe says she can’t wait to welcome visitors young and old from across the county, and before long nationwide, and from overseas, back to the historic Ballyjamesduff building.
“We are living through tumultuous times, a period in our history that will be studied for years to come, and being in such close proximity to history really emphasises the importance of museum’s in our communities,” said Ms Donohoe.
“Just as history is happening all around us, we bring history to life here with our exhibitions and award-winning outdoor experiences, so that our visitors can get a sense of how our ancestors felt as they lived through the events that shaped our nation.
“I look forward to welcoming old friends and new acquaintances back to the museum and can assure all our guests that we will adhere to all Covid-19 health guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all,” she added.
Cavan County Council’s Director of Services for Libraries and Cultural Services, Eoin Doyle said: “The re-opening of these important cultural amenities is a hugely positive moment for the county, and points to brighter times ahead for all of us. I want to thank County Librarian Emma Clancy and Museum Curator Savina Donohoe and their staff for their outreach efforts over the past few months in what has been a hugely challenging time for the library and museum sectors. I know they will relish the opportunity to re-engage with the public face-to-face in the coming weeks and months.”