Cork County Council Invites All to Celebrate ‘Ireland Reads’ 2025

Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service is calling on residents across the county to join in the excitement of Ireland Reads—a national campaign encouraging everyone to take time to enjoy a good book throughout February. The campaign culminates in a special National Day of Reading on Saturday, 22nd February.

Mayor Encourages All to Rediscover the Joy of Reading

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Joe Carroll, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying:

"Throughout the month of February, we are inviting everyone to pick up their favourite book or to rediscover the joy of reading and all the benefits it can have for our wellbeing. Cork County Council’s Library Service will host a range of events across the county, with something for everyone and all free of charge. Check out your local library branch and let’s get Cork reading."

Exciting Events Across Cork Libraries

This year’s Ireland Reads will see Cork County Council’s Libraries collaborating with some of Cork’s most talented authors, offering a diverse range of events suitable for all ages and interests.

Highlights include:

• Crime and Thriller Readings: Acclaimed authors Catherine Kirwan, Amy Jordan, and Michelle Dunne will share their gripping stories at Midleton, Mitchelstown, and Mallow libraries.
• Children’s Storytelling: In Kinsale, young readers can enjoy Leona Forde’s tales of the mischievous Milly McCarthy.
• Interactive Events: Clonakilty Library will host a Book Clinic, while Skibbereen Library invites visitors to design their own bookmark.
• Mental Health and Reading: Mitchelstown Library will present a Bibliotherapy Talk on how reading can boost mental wellbeing.
• Special Guest Appearance: Davey Russell will visit Youghal Library to talk about his remarkable career in the equestrian world.
• Island Book Club: Leabharlann Oiléan Chléire will host an Irish-language book club, connecting island communities through literature.

Chief Executive Highlights the Library’s Extensive Offerings

Moira Murrell, Chief Executive of Cork County Council, encouraged people to explore the wide range of resources available through the county’s libraries:

"The Library Service offers a wide range of services and events across 25 branches and 4 mobile libraries in Cork County. Membership is free, open to all and there is much to discover."

From eBooks and audiobooks to writers’ groups, craft sessions, Lego clubs, and even Pokémon swaps, the library service caters to readers of all ages and interests. Additionally, digital assistance services and remote printing facilities are available, making libraries more accessible than ever.

Join the National Day of Reading

Ireland Reads is a Government of Ireland initiative, delivered through Libraries Ireland and supported by the Department of Health via Healthy Ireland.

To find out more about events near you or to get involved, visit your local Cork County library or check out the council’s website at www.corkcoco.ie.