Cork County Council Seeks Facilitator for Rainbow Library Project Supporting Young LGBTQIA+ Creatives

Cork County Council is inviting applications for a Rainbow Library Facilitator to lead a creative writing and illustration initiative celebrating the voices of young LGBTQIA+ people across the county. The 12-month role offers an opportunity to guide participants aged 14 to 23 through workshops, mentorship and publication projects.

Rainbow Library has established itself as a vital creative outlet for LGBTQIA+ youth in Cork County, providing a safe and inclusive space where young people can explore identity, storytelling and self-expression. Through regular workshops and collaboration with professional writers and illustrators, participants develop original stories and artwork that reflect the diversity of modern Ireland.

The project has grown considerably since its inception, with published anthologies showcasing the creativity and courage of Cork's young LGBTQIA+ community. Rainbow Library groups have participated in prestigious events including West Cork Literary Festival, Dublin Literature Festival and Cork Zine Fest, giving young people a platform to share their work with wider audiences.

The successful applicant will lead monthly creative writing workshops throughout the year, alongside Easter and Summer creative camps. Participants will be guided through developing written work, collaborating with illustrators and contributing to the next Rainbow Library anthology.

The part-time, fixed-term position offers an annual fee of between €5,000 and €7,000 for approximately one workshop per month plus seasonal camps. Cork County Council is seeking an experienced writer with a strong portfolio of published or self-published work, along with a passion for engaging young people through creative projects. Confidence, empathy and a commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion are essential.

Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, Mayor of County Cork, said:

"The Rainbow Library gives young LGBTQIA+ people a platform to tell their own stories and see their experiences reflected in literature. We're excited to find a facilitator who will nurture creativity, confidence and connection among participants throughout County Cork."

Applications close at 5pm on 31st October 2025. Further information and application details are available at www.corkcoco.ie.