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Perceptions and Legacy
Henchy is perhaps best remembered for the lasting effect his work has had in improving Irish libraries. Adopting a policy of expansion, he pushed for the acquisition of the Kildare Street Club’s building as an intended destination for the library’s Manuscript Department and Genealogical Office, as well as the redevelopment of the National College of Art Building to suit future library purposes. The National Library of Ireland council of trustees, in its annual report for 1976, said of Henchy when he started his new position at Chester Beatty Library, "We deeply appreciate the zeal and energy displayed by Dr Henchy in his work for the strengthening of the staff, the improvement of the accommodation, services and collections of this library during his term of office. He laid the basis for many future projects."

Henchy’s efforts to expand library usership are also well-remembered, in particular his efforts to market the National Library of Ireland towards the public, which included a campaign of newspaper articles, radio interviews, and lectures that he himself undertook. Henchy’s policy that extended library hours to include Saturdays is also considered a notable accomplishment and remains in place to this day.

Henchy was regarded as an “urbane and scholarly,” figure who enjoyed the outdoors, especially long strolls and fishing. He was well-versed in topics concerning nature and topography and would often take walks in the Wicklow Mountains and surrounding areas.

Henchy is also remembered for his work supporting Irish cultural works, both as a librarian and in his personal life. He was a noted supporter of struggling artists, including poet Patrick Kavanaugh. His work in acquiring artist’s papers and manuscripts for library records often put much-needed money into their pockets.

Upon leaving the National Library of Ireland in 1976, Henchy identified Izaak Walton's The Compleat Angler as the single book he would take with him upon his departure, if given the choice.