The return of the Balbriggan Library Bell was marked by a visit to the library by the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Mary McCamley on 12th October. Also in attendance on the day were Chief Executive of Fingal County Council Paul Reid as well as Local Councillors Gráinne Maguire, Malachy Quinn and Tony Murphy as well as members of the Balbriggan community.
Local Historian and former Librarian Jim Walsh delivered a presentation detailing the history of Balbriggan library and its Bell. The Balbriggan Bell and clock mechanism was built in 1906 by W.H. Bailey & Co, Salford. The bell was removed from its external position on the building during renovation work in 1980, and was put on display in the Library when it reopened. While the next renovation took place in 2007 the Bell was removed for safe keeping to storage in Swords. As a result of a campaign led by Balbriggan and District Historical Society and The Balbriggan Community Group the bell and clock mechanism have being renovated and returned to its rightful home in Balbriggan Library where it will remain on permanent display.
Speaking about the return of the bell Librarian Patricia Brady said “It is appropriate that the return of the bell coincides with the 10th anniversary of the refurbishment of Balbriggan Library and I would encourage the Balbriggan community to call in and visit Balbriggan Library and see the renovated bell and clock mechanism on display.
