Cork Libraries Invite Residents to Get Lost in a Good Book This February

Cork County Council's Library and Arts Service is celebrating Ireland Reads throughout February, with a packed programme of free events culminating in Ireland Reads Day on Saturday, 28th February.

Cork County Council's Library and Arts Service is joining libraries nationwide in celebrating Ireland Reads, a government initiative promoting the benefits of reading for wellbeing and enjoyment. The 2026 campaign carries the theme "Get Lost in a Good Book", with events scheduled across County Cork throughout February.

Ireland Reads Day takes place on Saturday, 28th February, marking the conclusion of the month-long celebration. The campaign forms part of the government's Healthy Ireland programme, managed by Libraries Ireland and funded by the Department of Health.

Cork libraries have organised an extensive programme including author visits, workshops, and community events. Established authors visiting County Cork include Róisín Meaney in Mallow, Cónal Creedon in Bantry, and Billy O'Callaghan in Carrigaline. Children's authors will also visit libraries across the county.

Specialist events include a talk by non-fiction author Bill Power on the River Blackwater in Youghal, book binding craft workshops in Midleton and Cobh, and a presentation by an HSE psychologist on the benefits of reading in Kinsale. Seanchaí Yoga sessions are scheduled for Mitchelstown and Bandon.

Additional activities include story times, coffee mornings, book clinics, book trees featuring staff recommendations, reading challenges for adults and children, one-to-one sessions on library resources, and puzzles and games.

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

"For the month of February, we are asking people to take part in the 'Ireland Reads' campaign. Reading enriches our minds and reduces stress. With all the events being hosted in our libraries, there will be something of interest for everyone."

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, said:

"Cork County Council's Library and Arts Service has organised a huge amount of free events across the County. 'Ireland Reads' is an example of Cork County Council's commitment to working with partners to support wellbeing across our communities."

Library membership remains free, with staff available to provide personalised reading recommendations. The service encourages residents of all ages to visit their local library during February to participate in the campaign.

Cork County Council is also marking 100 Years of the Cork County Council Library this year and is seeking memories of the library service from residents across the decades.

Further information is available from local libraries, Cork County Council's social media channels, or at www.irelandreads.ie.