Ireland Reads is a campaign to get the whole country reading in the lead up to a national day of reading on Saturday February 24th. Tipperary County Council Library Service has teamed up with libraries nationwide, publishers, booksellers, authors and others for the campaign, which aims to celebrate reading and all the benefits it can have for wellbeing and enjoyment.
The campaign is asking everyone to “Get Lost in a Good Book” during February and especially on on Ireland Reads Day. A website www.irelandreads.ie has been set up where people can pledge to read on the day, sign up for reading reminders, and see how much time has been pledged by the Irish public so far.
Why is reading important?
Research shows that reading for pleasure is really for all of us – no matter our age. For children, of course, it has a huge positive impact in their cognitive development and literacy. For adults, studies have found that reading for pleasure enhances empathy, understanding of the self, and is effective in combatting loneliness.
Reading offers a way to escape and keep mentally active, and to lift our mood, and it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience – you can read with your kids of course, or you might use reading to connect with friends and family. Or why not join a book club where you can share insights and swap recommendations?
Not sure what to read? No Problem!
The Ireland Reads website offers book recommendations suited to a person’s interest and the time they have available. There are more than 1,500 recommendations from librarians all around the country. The website allows you to share a book recommendation with friends and family or on social media. But of course you don’t need the website to do that. We hope people throughout Ireland will talk about books they love and share reading recommendations throughout the month!
Are there any events?
Libraries all over the country will be running Ireland Reads initiatives and events throughout February in the build up to the big day on Saturday, February 24th. You can get a taste of what’s happening by visiting the website (click here) or checking your local library branch.
How can I access books?
Library members can borrow from 13 million items (that’s right – 13 million items!) or choose from and download thousands more eBooks, eAudiobooks, newspapers and magazines via our online services (click here).
Can schools get involved?
We would love schools and teachers to get involved. You can download a resources pack to help promote Ireland Reads in your school by visiting the website here.
