The county library service in Carlow commenced operation in 1930 accommodated in two rooms with one being the Courthouse. Over the years however, the library has re-located to 30 Dublin Street (1944) and the Assembly Rooms in Dublin Street (1976).
In 1998, Carlow County Library Headquarters and Central Library opened in Presentation Building, the site of the former Presentation Convent. The Presentation Sisters have a long association with Carlow Town which stretches back to 1811. The library premises occupies part of the original convent together with a new extension to the rear. The library is housed on three floors, offering adult and children’s reading materials, events, IT facilities, community space as well as the Local History Department, Genealogy Service and the County Archive.
Carlow County Council Libraries are free, democratic and welcoming places for all. There are library branches in Carlow, Tullow, Muinebheag and Borris and we strive to provide and develop a well-resourced public library service that contributes to the social, economic and cultural well-being of our members and communities. The library is a place to read, meet, research, learn, play, relax, participate, work and enjoy.