Library Relocated Following Severe Flooding
Severe flooding has necessitated the temporary relocation of Dungannon Library to a building regarded as a gateway to one of Ulster's most ancient sites.
Earlier this month, Dungannon Library closed its doors after substantial flooding occurred due to problems within the underground drainage system.
While repair work is underway, the main library services have been moved to Ranfurly House, a listed Victorian building situated at the forefront of the Hill of the O'Neill.
Library users have described the facility as a "vital social lifeline" for many in the local community and have commended the prompt provision of an alternative venue.
'This is about more than books'
The Hill of the O'Neill has historical significance dating back to the 14th Century when it served as the military and political stronghold of the O'Neill clan, chosen for its strategic height and panoramic views.
Libraries NI and Mid Ulster Council collaborated to secure accommodation for the library within this historic location.
Margaret Bell, from Libraries NI, said it "really is an example of community coming together because libraries are about much more than books".
"For a lot of people it's just a safe space to come, have a cup tea, read the papers, maybe pick up a book and have a sit down without any pressure and I think we've been able to re-capture that in the new space."
She added: "We facilitate everyone from babies to the elderly. We have a lot of students studying at the minute and we have our rhythm and rhyme class for children, as well as our adult reading groups, all being looked after in the new space."
On clear days, the hill's highest point offers views of Lough Neagh, the Sperrins and Mourne Mountains, and as far as Cavehill in Belfast.
In the 18th Century, Thomas Knox Hannington, a prosperous businessman, constructed a grand house on the site, the ruins of which remain visible today.
Within the shadow of the towers, the space now hosts the library's rhythm and rhyme classes for children.
Angela Lynch regularly brings her granddaughter, Béibhin, to these classes.
She said: "First of all it's a free and accessible class, three times a week and as a granny that's really handy to have a place to take them and it's brilliant for the children and seeing them interact with other babies.
"I was a bit worried when I heard about the flood, but having this alternative space is great because it means the children aren't going to miss out and it keeps that routine."
"It's just a lovely atmosphere and the children learn a lot and it's brilliant for the developmental language and social skills."
William Ward, who leads an adult reading group through Dungannon Library, expressed concern about the potential closure of regular library activities.
"The library in this town is a fairly vital community resource, for many people the library is quite literally the place where they will socialise with other people, so it's important to still have this space because there are many people who suffer from social isolation without it."
Libraries NI has indicated hopes that the Dungannon library building will reopen by mid-June, although this timeline may be adjusted depending on the duration of repair work.
Frances Burton, chair of Mid Ulster District Council, expressed satisfaction with the partnership with Libraries NI to provide an immediate solution following the library's closure.
"We recognise the importance of and are committed to providing an alternative space for members of the public to continue to access services," he said.
