PICTURES | Creativity shines in Longford libraries’ ‘Design a Bookmark’ competition

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Sophia Gregory and Hafsa Abrar Yasmin have been announced as the winners of the Longford Library Services ‘Design a Bookmark’ competition, held as part of the Children’s Book Festival late last year. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO. 

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The initiative sparked incredible creativity among young readers, with over 950 entries received from across County Longford.

The competition invited children aged 4–13 to design bookmarks celebrating their love of books and reading. Entry forms were distributed to every primary school in the county and made available in all six branch libraries.

After much deliberation, the judges selected the following winners:

4–8 Age Category

1st Sophia Gregory, (8) Granard Branch Library
2nd Harry Cassidy, (8) Longford Branch Library
3rd Clóda Corcoran, (7) Granard Branch Library

9–13 Age Category
1st Hafsa Abrar Yasmin, (11) Longford Branch Library
2nd Lillie Byrne, (11) Granard Branch Library
3rd Lara Cristina, (11) Ballymahon Branch Library

The first-placed designs in each category will be professionally printed and distributed across all Longford Libraries, ensuring these young artists’ work will be enjoyed by readers countywide. Each of the six winners also received a special art set in recognition of their talent.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said, "This competition highlights the creativity and imagination of our young people. It’s wonderful to see so many children engaging with books and expressing their love of reading through art."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, "Our libraries are central to community life, and this competition gives children a chance to contribute something lasting. These bookmarks will inspire readers of all ages for years to come."

Longford Library Services extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, schools, and families who supported the event. The enthusiasm shown reflects the strong culture of reading and creativity in County Longford.

For more information on upcoming library events, visit www.longfordlibrary.ie or contact your local branch.