Longford Libraries invite you to ‘Get Lost in a Good Book’ for Ireland Reads Day

Longford Libraries are joining libraries nationwide to take part in Ireland Reads, a campaign that celebrates the well-being benefits of reading and invites everyone to set aside time for a good book, culminating with Ireland Reads Day on Saturday, February 28.

The campaign, part of the government’s Healthy Ireland programme, celebrates and promotes the many benefits of reading for well-being and enjoyment. The theme for 2026 is ‘Get Lost in a Good Book’, and Longford Libraries are inviting everyone in Longford to take part.

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Exciting events are planned throughout the county for all ages to celebrate reading, books, and literature. 

On Friday, February 27 at 11am as part of Ireland Reads, Edgeworthstown Library is delighted to host children’s author Brian Gallagher for a special event celebrating reading, creativity and community. Brian will talk about his book ‘The Case of the Vanishing Painting,’ which is at the heart of the ‘One Mystery, One Town’ book project, and will give young readers an insight into storytelling, mystery writing and bringing stories to life. This event is suitable for children and families and forms part of a wider programme of reading and creative activities taking place in the town. Young Adult Book Club is meeting at 12pm on Saturday and all are welcome.

County Longford Events for Ireland Reads Day

• Granard Booktown will launch its official programme for the 2026 Festival in Granard Library with John Connell, co-director outlining this year's programme.
• Ballymahon Book Club members will discuss their favourite book of the year and Ballymahon Scribblers will read some of their own work at an open morning in Ballymahon Library on Ireland Reads Day at 11am. Entries from a Poetry Competition for Primary school children will also be on display.
• Pop into Drumlish Library from 11am-1pm for a book swap and coffee morning. Call in and discuss your favourite book and get some personal recommendations. 
• Longford Library will host the launch of ‘Stories of Us’ to mark Ireland Reads Day 2026 at 11am. Published by Longford Community Resources CLG (LCRL) in partnership with the EDI Centre Longford, ‘Stories of Us’ is the result of a deeply collaborative and participatory process, developed alongside the Ukrainian and Roma communities in Longford, with support from SICAP Ukrainian Support Workers, the Longford Roma and New Communities Community Development Project, and the EDI Centre. Funded by the Adult Literacy for Life Collaboration and Innovation Fund, the book celebrates cultural identity, promotes literacy, and amplifies community voices.
• Lanesboro Poetry and Music Group and Lanesboro Book Club will meet in Lanesboro Library at 11am on Ireland Reads Day and will read their favourite pieces of poetry or prose. All welcome!

Call into your local library and join or rejoin! Membership is free and you will be amazed at all the resources that are available to you with a library card!

Check out your local library for information about local competitions. Poetry and Book Reviews competitions are available. 

Creation Stations will be available in all libraries. 

Whether you are a lifelong reader or just rediscovering the joy of books, there is something for everyone at your local library.

County Librarian with Longford County Council, Martina Needham said, “We are delighted to bring the national campaign to celebrate reading to our community. We have an excellent array of activities and events lined up during the month of February to celebrate Ireland Reads and the very important role this positive activity fulfils in people’s lives. These activities and events are reflective of a busy programme that is a constant in Longford. We are encouraging people of all ages to visit during February to enjoy library services and participate in the campaign.

“Reading enriches our minds, reduces stress, and connects us to ideas and stories that shape who we are. It opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and supports wellbeing in today’s busy world. Library membership is free, and we are delighted to help people looking for reading particular to their interests. Ireland Reads is all about encouraging people to take time for themselves to enjoy the benefits of reading and we encourage people to visit us and participate.” 

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Amanda Branigan, Ireland Reads Working Group Chair said, “Ireland Reads is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate reading for pleasure and to remind people of the joy and benefits of books. Libraries are welcoming spaces for everyone, offering thousands of books and eBooks tailored to all interests. We encourage people across the country to take time during February to visit their local library, receive reading recommendations and join for free. ‘Get Lost in a Good Book’ this February and make reading a healthy activity in your life.” 

Visit your local library social media or website channels for information about activities and events lined up for Ireland Reads 2026 and visit www.irelandreads.ie for more information about the campaign. 

Visit your local library, join for free and explore the full line‑up of Ireland Reads events. Find more at www.irelandreads.ie and follow the conversation using #IrelandReads #LongfordLibraries #TellMeToGetLost

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