Library
About Our Library
Frank’s Library is housed in the old coach house at Roundwood.
When Frank and Rosemarie Kennan opened Roundwood House as a guesthouse in 1983, Frank began to shape what would become one of the house’s most distinctive spaces.
A lifelong reader, he built the library gradually, guided by curiosity and by long conversations with the many guests who passed through the house.
Today, the library holds more than 2,000 carefully chosen books and remains a quiet, comfortable room at the heart of Roundwood.
Guests are welcome to settle into an armchair with a book and a cup of tea or a glass of wine, enjoying the stillness of the room.
A Library of Civilisation
The library is arranged across the ground floor and mezzanine level and reflects Frank’s long-standing interest in the history of civilisation and the ideas that have shaped it.
It was conceived as a way of holding civilisation in one place: how we arrived where we are, and what we have made along the way.
The shelves cover ancient civilisations, the history of ideas, philosophy, religion, politics, science, art and literature, alongside memoirs, essays and fiction that explore how people have lived and thought over time, including periods of upheaval and darkness as well as moments of great creativity.
The collection has been built thoughtfully rather than assembled for display.
It includes numerous Folio Society editions and a limited edition facsimile of the Book of Kells, a particular highlight, alongside books that have been read, reread and argued over.
Why a Library?
The idea for the library grew out of Frank’s own reading and a desire to step back from the noise of daily news and think more clearly about where civilisation has come from and where it might be headed.
Early versions of the collection were shaped as much by discussion as by reading, with guests offering strong and sometimes unexpected views on what mattered and why.
Frank once described the aim as bringing civilisation together in one room, in familiar and well-used volumes, so that it might be easier to reflect on how we arrived here.
That idea still sits quietly behind the shelves, inviting browsing, reflection and the occasional long conversation.
A Room to Linger in
While the library began as Frank’s personal project, it has become a favourite spot for many guests.
It offers a chance to step back from the 24 hour news cycle and the pull of screens, and to look beyond the day to day for a while.
Some guests browse for a few minutes before dinner, others settle in with a book they did not expect to pick up, while many simply enjoy the atmosphere of a room shaped by years of reading and conversation.
Like the rest of Roundwood, it is less about being impressive and more about being genuinely used, and that is what gives it its character.
Gallery
Stay
Roundwood House is a place to settle in, spend time together, and enjoy accommodation in a house that is still lived in and used as it was meant to be.
Dining
Dinner at Roundwood House centres on seasonal, thoughtful cooking using ingredients sourced as locally as possible.
Gift Vouchers
Roundwood House gift vouchers can be used towards a stay and/or dinner. They suit birthdays, anniversaries or simply giving someone time away.
Testimonials
“Roundwood House in County Laois is one of Ireland’s finest mid-size houses of the Georgian period…”
Maurice Craig
Classic Irish Houses of the Middle Size, 1976
“From the minute we turned into the driveway, we were in raptures, as the house is filled with character, style and history. You have to eat dinner here; please don’t even think about going anywhere else! And breakfast couldn’t be better. Hannah was a wonderful host.”
Joanne W.
“Hannah and Paddy are wonderful hosts who go out of their way to make you feel at home… The food is divine… Paddy is not only an amazing cook but a talented musician too.”
Richard & Fiona, Killiney, Dublin
“We stayed in Writers Cottage. Pictures do not do this little Cottage justice… This hidden gem in the woods is packed with atmosphere & character… I highly recommend this accommodation”.
Tim T.
“A group of 12 enjoyed a perfect overnight stay here with ducks, hens and dogs in the grounds to greet us… Hannah was a perfect host, warm, welcoming, available but never intrusive. Paddy the chef produces the best meal I ever tasted.”
Margaret T.
“We found the house magical and the hospitality extended to us above and beyond. We had the 4 course dinner prepared by Paddy both nights of our stay and it was phenomenal.”
Toby M.
“Hannah and all the staff offered a masterclass in hospitality at its best. A gracious host, everything was managed exactly as you’d want it to be. The food was spectacular. The house and library are so charming.”
Alice Simington
Keep Up To Date
If you would like to hear from us, you can leave your name and email address below.
We will email you when there is an event coming up at Roundwood House, or something specific we think you might like to know about.
Or simply get in touch with us for more information.