The Gown Student Newspaper at Queen's University Belfast

NEWS: Heaney opens McClay Library

Seamus Heaney officially opened the McClay Library on Tuesday 6^th July during a black tie ceremony attended by various dignitaries associated with Queen’s University. The new library has been named after late benefactor Sir Allen McClay, and has been described by Lady McClay as an appropriate way to remember Sir Allen. In December 2009, The Gown reported on QUB’s failure to notify Heaney that the library in his name was no longer open.

BY BEN FINCH

“This is a beautiful place which is bound to give people a sense of self-worth that will enhance them,” Heaney said before the ceremony. In a speech full of his usual pastoral metaphors, he also described it as a “star-ship for our scholars” when discussing the IT facilities.
Peter Gregson said it was a historic night for Queen’s and for the students, current and future, who shall benefit. In his speech he said that it had been fifty years since Seamus Heaney had graduated from Queen’s University. However, Heaney contradicted this, subtly pointing out that he graduated in 1961.

The ceremony was purposely set to coincide with the graduations. The McClay Library has already been open for a year, and John Gormley of the Information Services Directorate Office said that they “had been keen to open the library as soon as possible so students can use it and I would like to think it has played a part in some of these graduations”.

He added, “We have been very lucky indeed. If we had started any later then it may not have been possible due to economic conditions. We are indebted to Allen McClay who has been very generous.”

A new wall has been constructed beside the Short Loan Section of the library which names the benefactors who contributed to the building. Gormley also said that there is always a danger of overlooking people such as Anthony O’Reilly, whose name is prominently placed on the wall. The library was originally to be named ‘The Sir Anthony O’Reilly Library’ .

Speaking to The Gown earlier this year, Norma Sinte, Director of Development and Alumni Relations, said that there is now a protocol in place regarding the naming of buildings, and all universities adhere to this. Under this protocol, a building can only be named after a benefactor. A building cannot be named after a VIP, academic, vice chancellor or alumnus who hasn’t donated money.

Edna and Michael Longley were in attendance at the ceremony. Edna Longley is a member of staff in the Seamus Heaney Centre and is currently working on a book on Yeats, so often uses special collections. “It is a pleasant and excellent centre to work in,” she said. While Michael Longley, Ireland Professor of Poetry, described libraries as “the most wonderful places in the world”.

Few students were at the black tie event. Among those enjoying a glass of wine were the new sabbatical officers of the Students’ Union. “The library is a remarkable opportunity for students but if students have any problems with Information Services they should contact the Union,” said new SU President Gareth McGreevy. He also commented on the poignancy of having an alumnus in Seamus Heaney opening the McClay Library.

Tags: Ben Finch, Gown, newspaper, qub, Queen's, queen's university, student, students, The Gown

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