Between 1897 and 1913, Andrew Carnegie donated over £170,000 to fund the building of eighty libraries in Ireland, one of which was established in Swords in 1908 and has played an important role in the educational, political, social and cultural life of the town ever since. Visit the recently renovated library to hear of the extent of this historic contribution and the people involved, especially in its early years and the movement for Irish independence.

Dr Declan Brady is a research historian, educator, and professional genealogist. He is currently working on a history of politics and local government in North County Dublin for Fingal Local Studies and Archives.