Tory Top Library is a single-storey purpose-built library very much set in nature; its flexible and modern interior providing spaces for different user groups while maintaining overall unity. Entrance to the building is on Tory Top Road, next to a mature cherry tree preserved on the site and the library also fronts onto Lower Friars Road. From the entrance, the building opens up to the east (adult area) and west (children and teens); different areas are articulated by small changes in levels following the contours of the site.
The library wraps around an enclosed garden on the south; adult area on one side, space for reference, study and quiet activities on another, staff areas on the third. The wall closing off the garden offers views southward to the hills beyond Cork. The community room is on the corner giving views in and out, and is designed for use when the rest of the library is closed.
The building is heated using a geo-thermal system with pipes taking water from 30 metres underground. There is maximum natural light and natural ventilation of the space and the building was designed to the CIBSE (1997) guide to natural ventilation principles.
Note: Population figure below is for a suburban area
Library Details
| Local Authority Name |
Cork City Council |
| Library |
Tory Top Road, Cork City |
| Library Name |
Tory Top Library |
| Date Opened |
1 September 2005 |
Locality & Services
| Type of Service |
Branch library |
| Type of Building |
Purpose-built library |
| Description of Locality |
Suburban residential area |
| Urban Population |
18000 |
| Stand Alone Facility |
Yes |
Size & Costs
| Number of Floors |
1 |
| Size (m2) |
695 |
| Cost of Library |
€3,037,672 |
| Funding Sources |
Local Authority, DEHLG |
Features & Facilities
| Special Features |
Landscaping |
| Accessibility |
Accessible toilets
Induction loop |
| Sustainability / Future Proofing |
Natural/passive heating & cooling
Ventilation |
| Special Facilities |
Community room |
| Internet Access |
18 terminals |
| Wi-Fi |
No |
| Printing |
No |
| Photocopying |
No |
| References |
Irish Library News, No.260, May 2006
|
Architect & Design Team
| Architect Name |
Cork City Council Architect's Department (2005) |
| County/City Librarian |
Cork City Council; Cork City Librarian (2005) |
Additional Information
| |
Tory Top Library features an enclosed 375 m² garden.
Tory Top library was selected for the longlist of the Public Library Building Awards, UK and the Republic of Ireland, 2007.
Watch a video clip of Tory Top library here. |
For further information please contact Cork City Council Library Authority