Proposal for display cases in Portlaoise library while waiting for museum
Portlaoise Library
IN light of the fact that Laois has not yet secured the development of a museum, further development of the historical aspects of Laois County Library has been put forward as a new heritage measure.
The idea was proposed by Cllr Tommy Mulligan, seconded by Cllr James Kelly, who praised the fantastic work being done by the librarians before questioning why historical objects on display at a recent event were the only photos of many objects that the county library already has in storage. He proposed that a glass display case or cabinet be introduced so that the objects can be displayed.
In addition, Cllr Mulligan advocated for a scheme whereby the library put a notice on social media asking for people to loan old or historic objects to these display cases for a period of a few months before being returned and a new set displayed. He said that the idea was part in recognition of the fact that a museum is still, like it or not, several years away.
The measure was met with widespread approval, but Laois Co Council CE, Michael Rainey, cautioned that the proposed idea should not reduce the impetus for them to proceed with pushing for a new museum. Mr Rainey also warned that running what would be effectively a museum in miniature could be challenging and that a better idea may be to run a particular theme every few months with objects brought in for display at that time and not on a permanent cycle.
A representative from the library was on hand to highlight the work they are currently doing in relation to heritage in the area, including the fort festival in Portlaoise every June, history talks for adults and children as part of heritage week and other talks that run throughout the year, ongoing school visits, a genealogy club, hosting an event celebrating 25 years of Abbeyleix bog and more besides.
