Despite planning approval being granted three years ago, the new build for Enniskillen Library is still awaiting ‘major necessary capital funding’.

A business case proposing a new library facility for Enniskillen was approved by the Department for Communities (DfC) in 2020 following which a design team was appointed, plans for the new library developed and planning approval was granted in June 2021.

A spokesperson for Libraries NI said: “Libraries NI continues to work with DfC to secure the necessary major capital funding to take forward the delivery of the new library building."

Pending the release of funding to commence construction of the new library building, Libraries NI continues to maintain the existing facilities to ensure the building remains safe and accessible to customers.

"Temporary fencing is in place to reduce the potential risks from spalling concrete and to allow us to continue to provide a library service for the people of Enniskillen.”

Libraries NI have also moved to reassure the public that the Heritage Collection which is housed at Enniskillen Library will remain within the library and will be temporarily relocated during construction of the new library.

A spokesperson said: “Libraries NI wants to reassure everyone that the intention is for the new library to continue to host the Heritage Collection and that there are no plans to relocate other collections including the Nawn Collection, the Labour History Archives and resources pertaining to the area.

“When construction commences, there may be temporary relocation of services and collections to an alternative location within the town and some resources may be housed in other Libraries NI locations while construction works are progressed but would be available and sent to Enniskillen on request.” 

The spokesperson added: “Libraries NI also wants to allay any concerns regarding staff support to customers using the Heritage Resources. Senior Heritage Managers provide support to customers on both a local and regional basis, supporting library-based colleagues in responding to customer enquiries.”