Clare Library Service is marking Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union with an exciting programme of cultural, literary and educational events taking place in libraries across the county throughout 2026.
Members of the public are invited to engage with a range of activities highlighting European culture, heritage, languages, literature and shared values. The programme commenced in July with the ‘Strangers into Citizens’ exhibition in partnership with the National Library of Ireland, at De Valera Library, Ennis, alongside a dedicated EU Corner providing information on the European Union and Ireland’s Presidency. The exhibition will subsequently travel to Scarriff Library and Shannon Library during July and August.
Libraries countywide are also participating in a European Authors promotion running from July to December, which started in Ennis Library on July 1. The collection features books written by authors from the 27 member states, translated into English.
Further events planned include celebrations for European Day of Languages on September 26, a special storytelling event in Ennistymon Library on October 22, and a European Christmas Cribs Exhibition at De Valera Library in December.
Speaking at the launch of the programme, County Librarian Cora Gunter said, “Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union presents a wonderful opportunity for our libraries to connect communities with the rich cultural diversity of Europe. Through exhibitions, literature, language initiatives, storytelling and community events, we look forward to celebrating our European connections while showcasing Clare’s strong tradition of cultural engagement and lifelong learning.”
“We are particularly pleased to highlight Clare’s partnership with Croatia as part of the Presidency programme. Libraries are uniquely placed to foster cultural exchange and understanding, and we encourage people of all ages to participate in the wide range of free events planned throughout the year,” she added.
The library programme complements a broad range of cultural, heritage and artistic initiatives taking place across the county as part of Clare County Council’s EU Presidency programme and celebrates Clare’s partnership with Croatia during Ireland’s Presidency. These initiatives aim to strengthen awareness of Ireland’s role within the European Union while promoting intercultural understanding and community participation.
Details of library events and updates throughout the year will be available from Clare Library branches, at clarelibraries.ie and through Clare County Council’s social media channels.
