Libraries throughout County Wicklow are participating in Ireland Reads, a campaign aimed at encouraging the entire nation to read this month, leading up to a national day of reading on Saturday, 22nd February 2025.
Irish libraries have collaborated with publishers, booksellers, authors, and other partners for this campaign, which is part of the government’s Healthy Ireland initiative. The goal is to celebrate reading and highlight its many benefits for wellbeing and enjoyment.
The campaign encourages everyone to “Get Lost in a Good Book” during the month of February, particularly on Ireland Reads Day, Saturday, 22nd February.
Throughout the county, events for all ages will celebrate reading, books, and literature. Wicklow County Council Library Service will host various activities across our branch network throughout February in preparation for Ireland Reads Day. We invite you to visit your local branch library to participate in an event or simply to explore what’s available. The theme for 2025 is “Get Lost,” and we hope you will come to your local library to immerse yourself in a good book! A complete schedule of events will be announced on our website and social media pages.
The Ireland Reads website provides book recommendations tailored to your interests and the time you have available for reading. With over 1,500 suggestions from librarians across the country, there is something for everyone, regardless of interests or reading levels. Users can enter their favourite book genre and the amount of time they wish to read each day. The website will suggest the perfect book and calculate how long it will take to finish, allowing you to set a reading challenge if you’re looking to get back into the habit of reading. You can also recommend a book to a friend through the website.
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, encourages everyone in County Wicklow to participate in Ireland Reads, stating, “Getting lost in a good book is one of the best things you can do, at any age. Reading is great for your wellbeing; a good book can relax you, it can teach you, it can take you places you’ve never been and introduce you to people you’ve never met.
Cllr. Paul O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, added: "Reading has the power to bring people together, spark imagination, and open new worlds. We encourage everyone in Wicklow to pick up a book this month, whether it's your first time or you're rediscovering the joy of reading."
Several well-known ambassadors are promoting the campaign, including Booker Prize winner Paul Lynch, Marian Keyes, Rick O’Shea, Laureate na nÓg Patricia Forde, Dave Rudden, and more. You can find out what reading means to them and why they support the campaign at https://www.irelandreads.ie/
Discover all that is happening for Ireland Reads, or to get or share book recommendations, visit https://www.irelandreads.ie/ or https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Libraries for more information on local events.