Libraries across Clare are joining the nationwide celebration of Ireland Reads Day on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Ireland Reads Day marks the culmination of Ireland Reads, a national campaign to get the whole country reading during February. A part of the government’s Healthy Ireland programme, the campaign celebrates and promotes the many benefits of reading for wellbeing and enjoyment.
The theme for 2026 is ‘Get Lost in a Good Book’, and Clare Libraries is inviting everyone in Clare to take part.
Exciting events are planned for all ages to celebrate reading, books, and literature within the community. In Scarriff Library, Dara Waldron, author of ‘A Sheepdog Named Oscar’, will give a talk on his book, writing and his reading influences. Other events include a story time for children with Roisin Meaney in Miltown Malbay; Baby Book Club in Shannon Library; a history exhibition and a Monkey Music session for toddlers in Sixmilebridge Library and an intergenerational storytelling session with Dáithí Collopy in Ennistymon Library.
Clare Libraries County Librarian, Helen Walsh, said, “We are delighted to bring the national campaign to celebrate reading to our community. We have an excellent selection of activities and events during the month of February to celebrate Ireland Reads and the very important role this positive activity fulfils in people’s lives.
“These activities and events are reflective of a busy programme that is a constant in Clare Libraries. Reading enriches our minds, reduces stress, and connects us to ideas and stories that shape who we are. It opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and supports wellbeing in today’s busy world.
“Library membership is free and we are delighted to match people’s interests to various genres of books. Ireland Reads is all about encouraging people to take time for themselves to enjoy the benefits of reading and we encourage people to visit and participate.”
Chair of Ireland Reads Working Group, Amanda Branigan, said, “Ireland Reads is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate reading for pleasure and to remind people of the joy and benefits of books. Libraries are welcoming spaces for everyone, offering thousands of books and eBooks tailored to all interests.”
“We encourage people across the country to take time during February to visit their local library, receive reading recommendations and join for free. Get lost in a good book this February and make reading a healthy activity in your life.”
Visit clarelibraries.ie or your local library social media or website channels for information about activities and events lined up for Ireland Reads 2026 and visit irelandreads.ie for more information about the campaign.
Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtags #IrelandReads and #TellMeToGetLost and tag @ClareLibraries to show how you’re celebrating Ireland Reads locally.