IONA MacLEOD WAS A PILLAR OF CARLOW SOCIETY
Iona MacLeod, the esteemed former County Librarian of Carlow, passed away peacefully on Christmas morning in 1998 at Borris Lodge Nursing Home. She dedicated nearly 40 years of her life to library service, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
Appointed as the first County Librarian shortly after the Public Libraries Act was adopted in 1929, she was instrumental in establishing and nurturing a network of libraries in County Wicklow. Later, she relocated to Carlow, where she played a pivotal role in founding the County Library Service.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Iona was a fervent advocate for history, archaeology, and the arts. She was a founding member of both the Old Carlow Society and the Carlow County Heritage Society, and actively supported cultural events like Feis Ceatharlach and Eigse.
Iona was a woman of remarkable character and grace. The step-daughter of former Minister for Posts, P.J. Little, and sister to the late Catriona McLeod, curator of the National Museum in Dublin, she hailed from a distinguished family.
A captivating storyteller, Iona delighted in recounting tales of her travels with her sister, their encounters with the Yeats brothers, and her adventures in Paris. An avid art enthusiast, she frequented galleries and museums, amassing a collection of artworks.
Iona possessed a profound appreciation for nature's beauty, finding wonder even in the seemingly mundane. Her tranquil and contemplative nature made her a cherished friend and a respected figure in the community.
The passing of Iona McLeod signifies the end of an era in Carlow. Her legacy as a gracious lady, embodying courtesy, dignity, and decorum, will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Appointed as the first County Librarian shortly after the Public Libraries Act was adopted in 1929, she was instrumental in establishing and nurturing a network of libraries in County Wicklow. Later, she relocated to Carlow, where she played a pivotal role in founding the County Library Service.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Iona was a fervent advocate for history, archaeology, and the arts. She was a founding member of both the Old Carlow Society and the Carlow County Heritage Society, and actively supported cultural events like Feis Ceatharlach and Eigse.
Iona was a woman of remarkable character and grace. The step-daughter of former Minister for Posts, P.J. Little, and sister to the late Catriona McLeod, curator of the National Museum in Dublin, she hailed from a distinguished family.
A captivating storyteller, Iona delighted in recounting tales of her travels with her sister, their encounters with the Yeats brothers, and her adventures in Paris. An avid art enthusiast, she frequented galleries and museums, amassing a collection of artworks.
Iona possessed a profound appreciation for nature's beauty, finding wonder even in the seemingly mundane. Her tranquil and contemplative nature made her a cherished friend and a respected figure in the community.
The passing of Iona McLeod signifies the end of an era in Carlow. Her legacy as a gracious lady, embodying courtesy, dignity, and decorum, will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
IONA MacLEOD WAS A PILLAR OF CARLOW SOCIETY