The idea
We are creating a small community radio studio and reading space inside BIBLARY in Dublin 8. The project will transform one room into a welcoming area where people can read, meet and record conversations, interviews and podcasts.
The space will support literary events, storytelling and community dialogue, connecting traditional reading culture with modern audio media.
The project includes essential renovation works and basic acoustic treatment to transform the room into a functional recording space while preserving the character of the historic building. We will install core radio equipment to enable podcasts, interviews and literary conversations.
BIBLARY operates independently and largely from grant to grant. Alongside creating the studio, part of the funding will contribute to maintaining access to this important cultural space. This is a modest but strategic investment — linking heritage with contemporary community media and ensuring the space remains active and relevant.
What we'll deliver
- enovation of one room within BIBLARY, located in the historic CIE Hall building in Dublin 8
- Sensitive upgrade of the space to preserve the character of the building while adapting it for modern use
- Installation of basic acoustic treatment (sound panels and noise reduction improvements)
- Purchase and installation of essential radio equipment (microphones, audio interface, headphones, laptop)
- Set-up of a fully functional two-person community radio studio
- Launch of the studio with one free community workshop
- Recording and publication of the first 5 community podcast episodes
- Public opening event presenting the newly renovated studio space
Why it's a great idea
This project will modernise BIBLARY and expand its role from a traditional reading space into an active community media hub. The new radio studio will give local residents, migrants and young people the opportunity to record podcasts, interviews and literary conversations, helping them build confidence and digital skills.
It will increase participation in cultural life by offering a welcoming platform for multilingual voices. Stories that might otherwise remain unheard will be documented and shared, strengthening intercultural understanding in Dublin 8.
This project brings new life to a room within the historic CIE Hall, strengthening its role as a living cultural space rather than a static heritage site. By introducing a community radio studio, we connect the building’s history with contemporary storytelling.
The studio will provide a platform for multilingual voices in Dublin 8, encouraging participation from migrants, young people and local residents. It will modernise BIBLARY’s
Steps to get it done
- Project preparation Confirm room use, plan renovation works and order radio recording equipment.
- Renovation and setup Carry out minor renovation works, install acoustic panels and set up the radio recording equipment.
- Studio testing and training Test the recording setup and deliver one free introductory workshop for volunteers.
- Studio launch Officially open the BIBLARY Community Radio Studio for community use.
- First recordings Record and publish the first community podcast conversations in the new studio.
