Members of the Annahilt and Magheraconluce Community Association have unveiled a red telephone box transformed into a public library at the village crossroads in County Down.

The telephone box was supplied by Wilson’s Yard in Dromore, with funding provided by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and the community association. Council staff transported the box, carried out improvements including shelving and a solar light installation, and tidied the surrounding paved area.

Association chairman Keith Garbett thanked supporters, including Councillor Andrew Gowan, and those who voted for the project at the Grand Choice event in Drumlough. The library allows anyone to borrow and donate books, which can be left in the box or with association members, with a request to keep it tidy.

Councillor Gowan noted the project builds on an existing community book box built by Drumbo Men’s Shed. The idea originated from a conversation with volunteer Tom McGrory. Funding was secured through the Public Participation Grant – Grand Choice, hosted by Lisburn and Castlereagh PCSP, alongside council and association resources.