Clare Libraries has announced the return of the Children’s Book Festival 2026, a month-long celebration of reading, storytelling, creativity and imagination for primary school children throughout County Clare.
This October, libraries across the county will welcome some of Ireland’s most beloved children’s authors, award-winning storytellers, illustrators and performers, giving thousands of young readers the opportunity to meet the creators behind their favourite books and discover new worlds through stories.
Taking place throughout the month, the festival will feature a packed programme of events designed to inspire children from Junior Infants to Sixth Class. Young audiences will have the chance to meet bestselling fantasy author Dave Rudden, popular children’s writer Leona Forde, acclaimed historian and author Michael Smith, historical fiction favourite Brian Gallagher, and Titanic author Nicola Pierce, alongside a host of talented storytellers, illustrators and performers from Ireland and Europe.
This year’s Book Festival also includes a celebration of Irish and European Storytelling with storytellers visiting libraries and schools in North Clare to mark Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council and Clare’s pairing with Croatia. These events are supported by Communicating Europe and is part of a wider programme of events taking place in Libraries, Schools and the Michael Cusack Centre.
Speaking at the launch of the programme, County Librarian Cora Gunter said, “We are thrilled to welcome such an outstanding line-up of authors, storytellers and performers to Clare this October. For many children, meeting a favourite author or hearing a story performed live can be a truly transformative experience. The Children’s Book Festival opens doors to imagination, creativity and a lifelong love of reading.
“Through reading, storytelling and creativity, children can explore new worlds, develop confidence in their own imaginations and create memories that will stay with them long after the festival ends.”
Highlights of the 2026 programme include bestselling author Michael Smith sharing the remarkable story of Antarctic explorer Tom Crean and discussing his acclaimed historical writing and graphic novel.
Also during Children’s Book Festival 2026, popular historical fiction writer Brian Gallagher, will bring history to life through his latest mystery adventure set in 1912 Dublin. Storytellers Fiona Dowling and Simon Schuemmelfeder will take children on an imagination-powered journey across Europe through folktales, songs and stories from different cultures.
Meanwhile, acclaimed author Nicola Pierce will explore the fascinating history behind her novel Spirit of the Titanic, supported by Clare Libraries History Week.
Other highlights include children’s author Niamh Donnellan, introducing young audiences to Ireland’s legendary heroes through storytelling and creative crafts.
Beloved Milly McCarthy creator Leona Forde, sharing a lively reading from her latest book, Milly McCarthy and the Doggy Daycare Drama.
Elsewhere, Clare author Laura Keohane will present an interactive workshop exploring storytelling, creativity and the secrets behind writing a book.
Illustrator Linda Fährlin, will invite children to become illustrators for a day through a hands-on workshop inspired by Ireland’s lighthouses and seashore.
Teachers can book directly by contacting their local library. Contact details for all Clare libraries are available at www.clarelibraries.ie