Charleville Mall library celebrates 125 years

Published on 2nd October 2025

Dublin’s oldest working public library marks a remarkable milestone

Charleville Mall Library is celebrating a very special birthday — 125 years of service to the community. Opened in 1900, it holds the unique honour of being Dublin’s oldest public library, and has been a beloved part of the North Strand's literary, community and cultural life ever since.

Over the past century and a quarter, generations of readers have passed through its doors. Borrowing books, attending events, sharing stories, and building a strong sense of local community. 

A Quilt of Memories

To mark this important milestone, the Charleville Mall Library Tapestry Group has created a beautiful Memory Quilt, to reflect the long and vibrant history of the library. Each square tells a story, of the library’s architecture, its staff, its visitors, and the many changes it has seen over 125 years.

The quilt will be unveiled at a special celebration — and you’re invited!

Join Us for the Celebration

Saturday, 15th November
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Charleville Mall Library

We’ll mark the occasion with a festive afternoon of:

Speeches from local voices and library supporters
The official unveiling of the Memory Quilt
Live music to bring the space to life
Cake to toast the occasion

Whether you’re a lifelong visitor or have never set foot inside before, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your local library, celebrate its past, and look forward to its future.

Come along, bring a friend, and be part of history!