Clare County Council has launched Death Positive Libraries Clare, a countywide initiative designed to support open and compassionate conversations around death, dying, grief and bereavement.
The initiative introduces specially curated book collections in libraries across the county, creating accessible pathways to information, reflection and support for individuals, families, carers, healthcare professionals and the wider community. It aims to improve death literacy, reduce stigma and encourage greater community understanding and support.
The collections are now available in De Valera Library in Ennis, Ennistymon Library, Kilrush Library, Scarriff Library and Shannon Library.
A programme of creative workshops will also take place in early November, offering opportunities to explore memory, legacy, grief, connection and storytelling through creative practice in a supportive environment.
Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Killeen said, “Death, dying and grief are experiences that touch every one of us, yet they can often be difficult to talk about. Death Positive Libraries Clare is a thoughtful and compassionate initiative that creates opportunities for those conversations to happen in a supportive and welcoming setting.
I am proud that Clare is leading the way in making these important resources available across the county, helping individuals and families access information, support and understanding when they need it most. Through greater awareness and open conversation, we can build communities that are more compassionate, connected and supportive for everyone.”
The project has been developed through the support of Creative Ireland, Clare Libraries and Clare County Council, in collaboration with healthcare partners, community organisations, creative practitioners and library staff. It has also been informed by wider work nationally and internationally on death literacy and compassionate communities.
Reflecting the growing importance of equipping communities to engage with death, dying, loss and remembrance, the initiative aims to encourage meaningful conversations, provide comfort and guidance, and strengthen community support networks throughout County Clare.