Libraries right across Ireland will become hives of activity this Saturday as the nation celebrates Ireland Reads Day.
Hundreds of events to entertain and enthral children are being staged to mark the national celebration of reading. And this year, the Libraries Ireland campaign gives kids permission to tell grown-ups to Get Lost...in a good book, that is.
The aim is to encourage everyone, of whatever age, to embrace the joy and benefits of reading, during February and beyond.
Data earlier this month showed that kids' titles topped the list of the most borrowed books in Irish libraries last year.
"This reflects well on efforts to improve reading among children and teenagers," said Stuart Hamilton, Head of Libraries Development with the Local Government Management Agency.
"Libraries are a vital service within our villages, towns and cities to nurture reading amongst us all."
Here’s just a few of the events taking place across the country on Saturday. So go on, get lost and check out Ireland Reads to see what’s happening in your local library.
Waterford
Teddy Storytime in Ardkeen Library, 10:30am. Bring your favourite teddy along to enjoy some special stories. Suitable for all ages and all welcome. No need to book so come along and introduce your teddy to the magic of Storytime.
Kerry
Drop your toy to Killorglin Library on Friday, tuck them in and read a story. They will be well looked after by the librarians, and will be ready to be collected at an "All About Toys" storytime the following morning.
Cork
Leona Forde is the author of the Milly McCarthy series. The illustrated books follow the antics of a madcap young Irish girl called Milly who is a magnet for chaos. Leona will be in Kinsale Library at 11am for an event targeted at 7-12-year-olds.
Read a chapter from Milly McCarthy here!
Dublin
Join author and TV Journalist Zainab Boladale for an exciting celebration of her YA debut, Braids Take A Day, published by O’Brien Press. This event will feature an engaging talk, a reading from the book and a Q&A session, plus a live braiding demonstration by one of Ireland’s top braiders at Deansgrange Library (2.30pm-4pm).
Westmeath
Join author and illustrator Terence Casey for a fun filled storytime at Moate Library. Terence and his family keep a range of birds and animals. He teaches art to secondary school students and has written three books about his many feathered and furry friends. Takes place at 10am in Moate and 12 noon at Athlone Library.
Carlow
Join Helena the Storyteller at Carlow County Library for a morning of fun and fantastical tales to celebrate Ireland Reads. With weird and wonderful characters, games and spooky plot-lines, this energetic and interactive show will bring both children and grown-ups to the edge of their seats and up on their feet. Takes place at 10.30am and 11.30am for ages five and over.
Ireland Reads is an initiative of the Government of Ireland and is part of the Healthy Ireland programme.
If you want some recommended reads - check out the RTÉjr Book Club!
