Libraries across County Roscommon are set to celebrate Ireland Reads Day on Saturday, February 22nd, encouraging people of all ages to embrace the joy of reading.
As part of the nationwide initiative led by Libraries Ireland, library services in the county will highlight the BorrowBox app, which allows members to access eBooks and eAudiobooks. A newly introduced ePress feature will also be showcased, providing users with access to a variety of newspapers and magazines.
Local libraries will host bookmark design workshops for children, while their social media channels will feature a ‘Getting to Know Your Librarian’ segment, offering insights into the people behind the county’s library services.
Ireland Reads Day aims to inspire a love of books and the transformative power of reading. Award-winning author and Ireland Reads ambassador Marian Keyes spoke about the profound impact reading had on her life.
Ms Keyes said: “I was an anxious, lonely child, but when I read my first Enid Blyton book, The Twins at St Clare’s, my mind was blown.
“Suddenly, I had a gateway to another world – to infinite worlds. I was able to escape the discomfort of being me by immersing myself in the lives of others. Since then, reading has been my saviour. The ability to read is my superpower.”
Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development at the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), emphasised that Ireland Reads is an opportunity for people to rediscover the services their local libraries have to offer: “Some may be pleasantly surprised to learn that library fees were abolished in January 2019 and all previous fines were removed.
“This means that you can return to your library with a clean slate – even if you forgot to return that last book.”
He also highlighted the extensive resources available in local libraries, from print books to digital services: “Libraries have hundreds of books and reading resources to suit all interests, bringing great pleasure to people in today’s busy world.”
According to Mr Hamilton, librarians are on hand to assist the public in finding books they’ll enjoy and to support you in developing a healthy reading habit.
Head of Libraries Development Mr Hamilton said: “People are always delighted to learn about BorrowBox, which provides free access to eBooks, audiobooks, and now a selection of e-magazines and e-newspapers. The library really does have something for everyone.”
Beyond reading, Roscommon libraries also offer a range of eLearning opportunities, including language courses and career development resources. Users can access career advice, employment research support, and tips on job applications and interviews.
For book recommendations and a full list of events in County Roscommon and beyond, visit www.irelandreads.ie.
