Galway Public Libraries Blog

Irish Successes Abroad Exhibition at ED Carraroe Library

2012-01-31T16:05:00.003Z

An exhibition, compiled by the European Union Representation in Ireland, is now showing at the Europe Direct Centre, Carraroe Library until 21 February 2012.
The Irish Success Abroad exhibition was put together by the European Commission Representation in Ireland. It consists of a collection of colourful panels demonstrating the achievements of Irish people in a wide variety of areas, including sport, business, literature, music and technology, to name but a few. It is a testimony to the achievements of Irish people, companies and organisations, and serves as an inspiration for those following in their footsteps.

Europe Direct Centres were set up by the European Commission with the purpose of making information on the EU readily available to the citizen.

There are 8 such centres in Ireland, with 2 in Galway ..at Ballinasloe and An Cheathru Rua.

"Mini Clifden Exhibition" at Clifden Library

2012-01-26T12:58:00.000Z

Razzle Dazzle Book Launch in Loughrea Library

2012-01-24T12:14:00.000Z

The launch of the 2011 edition of the Loughrea Writing Group's publication Razzle Dazzle took place recently in Loughrea Library.
Razzle Dazzle was launched on the night by Liam Nolan who also edited and introduced the book. The cover art was designed by local artist Oonagh Nolan. The contributing authors read from the book on the night. The book is available for purchase from all good book stores and local vendors.

Comic Book Art in Galway City Library

2012-01-20T16:36:00.000Z

Happy Birthday to Over the Edge

2012-01-19T16:54:00.001Z

The first Over The Edge: Open Reading of 2012 takes place in Galway City Library on Thursday, January 19th, 6.30-8.00pm. The Featured Readers are Dearbhaile Houston, Damian Cunniffe & Leanne O’Sullivan. This is a very special occasion as it is now exactly nine years since Over The Edge was born in Galway City Library in January 2003.

The Uncharted Territory - Oisín McGann

2012-01-12T16:18:00.000Z

Oisín McGann is an Irish author and illustrator. He writes in a range of genres for children and teenagers, mainly science fiction and fantasy, and has illustrated many of his own short story books for younger readers. He posted the following on his blog recently.

On the 10th of October, Phil Hogan, the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, announced that the Library Council (An Chomhairle Leabharlanna) was being dissolved. Bad as this news was for the council, it was a far worse omen for the future of the nation’s libraries. Particularly given the burnt-earth policy that is causing libraries to close all over the UK.
In my view, the dissolving of the Library Council suggested that Mr Hogan, and the other people responsible for this decision, may not fully comprehend the value of public libraries. Perhaps this lack of comprehension is a result of the clumsy tools used when those in power attempt to assess and document that value.

Read the rest of Oisín McGann's article on his blog here

What is a Poet?

2012-01-04T14:06:00.002Z

Do we read poems to find our views confirmed? Hardly. Those are the bad poems. We read poems because they express something we did not know. Because they voice something we always felt but were unable to express. Because the best poems put into words what cannot be captured in words, which is a contradiction.

A consummate poem marks the poetic moment in which the contradiction is solved – in one verse, one line, one word, one syllable.
Günter Kunert gives the answer to a question that the poem does not pose. In other words: Kunert answers the one question that every poem poses, the question about the one who is speaking. What is that, actually, a poet? How do you recognize one?
According to Kunert, the poet is characterized by his instinct for the only right word, the only possible diction, the harmony of the metaphors, the apodictic irreversibility of what has been said. It makes hesitating and looking for words needless. A poet's studio is not an alteration shop.
Ossip Mandelstam once asked how poetry ideally would have to be. And he answered himself: “Maybe poetry does not have to do or be anything. It does not owe anything to anyone and all its creditors are forgers.” By this, he meant the ideologists of Stalinism, who put the poet in a labour camp, where he died. Some of his poems were only preserved because friends of Mandelstam had learned them by heart; manuscripts and copies were prohibited.
So there is something that poetry has to be. As Kunert writes, poetry has to be more than just a notice of a special style of writing and, as Mandelstam's example shows, it has to find a way to survive even in the most hopeless situations. Poetry also stands at the edge of the abyss, because the abyss is very often the place where poetry is written.

The Frankfurt Anthology is a collection of German poems and their interpretations. Every year it awards one of the interpreters with the Prize of the Frankfurt Anthology; in 2011, it was Günter Kunert. The above is an excerpt of a eulogy delivered in his honour.

Christmas Music Club in Loughrea Library

2011-12-31T20:19:00.000Z

The Loughrea Music Club held it's monthly free concert in Loughrea Library on the 4th of December.

The theme this month was Christmas and the audience were treated to some festive carols and Christmas songs from the Gray Lake String Quartet and Piano, including For Unto us a Child is Born from Handel's Messiah.

Also performing on the night were the Kiltulla

Community Choir and the night ended with a grand finale performance of Adeste Fidelis by tenor Timmy Lynch.

Next concert takes place on February 4th 2012.

Tuam Library Arts & Crafts Session

2011-12-23T15:15:00.002Z

Green Schools Exhibition at Loughrea Library

2011-12-21T14:53:00.002Z

Green-schools, known internationally as Eco-Schools is an environmental education programme currently taking place in over 3,500 primary and secondary schools in Ireland. Participating schools focus on five themes, starting with Litter and Waste, and continuing on to Energy, Water, Travel and Biodiversity. Schools recieve a Green Flag for every theme they complete and so far 2,310 schools have been awarded a Green Flag.

Loughrea Library is currently hosting an exhibition of work from local schools participating in the Green-Schools programme on the Water theme.
As part of the exhibition pupils attended a wildlife and biodiversity workshop with wildlife expert Gordon D'Arcy at the library.The colourful exhibition consists of a range of collages, paintings and drawings by pupils highlighting the importance of water conservation as well as showing the local wildlife that depend on clean water for survival.

Polar Express will be stopping at Loughrea, Tuam, Ballybane, Westside & Dunmore Libraries

2011-12-16T15:14:00.005Z

Christmas Storytelling will take place in a number of Libraries based on the award winning picture book The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. It won the Caldecott Medal in 1986.

It is a wonderful Xmas story based on an old fashioned steam train that brings children to the North Pole on Xmas eve to meet Santa and see him off on his annual sleigh ride. Santa selects one boy to receive the first present of xmas, rather than the usual requests the boy asks for one of Santa’s sleigh bells!

There will be bells and hot chocolate in keeping with the story!

The sessions are being held in the evening, darkness required and there will be 50 children approx at each session. The story is magical.

The Polar Express will be stopping at the following stations during December 2011:

Loughrea Library-- Tuesday the 20th of December at 5.30. --ph. 091 847220

Tuam Library -- Wednesday the 21st of December at 6.00pm -- ph.093 24287

Ballybane Library -- Wednesday 21st at 5.30. -- ph. 091 380590

Westside Library -- Thursday 22nd at 5.30. -- ph. 091 520616

Dunmore Library -- Thursday 22nd at 5 pm. -- ph. 093 38923

Some of these sessions are heavily booked. You should enquire at the relevant library.

Friels's 'Buaiteoirí' in Loughrea library

2011-12-14T15:14:00.003Z

Splódar Theatre Company recently toured Buaiteoirí, (Irish language translation of 'Winners' by Brian Friel). Loughrea library hosted the play on 8 Samhain.

Friel’s masterpiece is surely the Romeo and Juliet of Irish literature as the ill-starred lovers Mag and Joe find societal and family pressures too much for them.
Strangely, this tale of tragedy with its hilarious humorous sequences awakens feelings of optimism rather than despair as it draws us deftly into the charged and changing world of the young lovers. Neasa Ní Chuanaigh and Iorras Ó Gallachóir played the characters of Mag and Joe.

Over the Edge in Galway City Library

2011-12-10T14:20:00.000Z

Learning to Fly in Dunmore Library

2011-12-06T14:47:00.006Z

This is a young girl in the Dunmore Library holding a book entitled For Those Who Want to Fly.

The Library Service is there for all those who want to fly!

This book of beautiful illustrations and text depicts a newly born bird going through life stages...the kind of life stages we all go through. The young bird falls several times before it eventually flies: as the book says: "Falling down can help us free ourselves from the superfluous".

Nurturing literacy and the imagination does transform people‘s lives: or as that great Italian writer Anna Maria Ortese put it: “the more books you read, the better you might express yourself.” She observed that “the possession of a means of self-expression – a means of self-expression and an education in its use - might provide us sometimes with what she called ‘a parachute in life’.”

That is what the Library Service tries to do...tries to teach us all to fly and provides us with a parachute whenever we hit turbulence!

Irish Successes Abroad Exhibition at ED Ballinasloe Library

2011-12-03T12:48:00.005Z

An exhibition,compiled by the European Union Representation in Ireland,is now showing at the Europe Direct Centre, Ballinasloe Library until January 9th, 2012.

Entitled “Irish Successes Abroad” and taking its inspiration from the National Gallery's exhibition, which looks at Irish people who went abroad in the 16th Century, it puts the focus on 21st century Ireland and on the people and products who have achieved extraordinary success abroad, both in the EU and globally,in their chosen field. Categories include Business, Dairy products, Authors, Film, Irish horseracing, musicians, aviation, fashion, fishing, sport.

The exhibition consists of a collection of colourful panels and is a testimony to the achievements of Irish people,companies and organizations and serves as an inspiration for those who follow in their footsteps. It can be viewed during library opening hours.

Europe Direct Centres were set up by the European Commission with the purpose of making information on the EU readily available to the citizen.

There are 8 such centres in Ireland, with 2 in Galway ..at Ballinasloe and An Cheathru Rua.

MS Ireland Art & Photography Exhibition in Galway City Library

2011-12-02T14:15:00.001Z

Loughrea Music Club in Loughrea Library

2011-11-30T16:34:00.004Z

The Loughrea Music Club gave their monthly free concert on November 6^th in Loughrea Library.
The theme was ‘American Night’ to commemorate 150 years since the Irish involvement in the American Civil War.
Loughrea Comhaltas led by Michael Fahy, played a medley of traditional tunes. While Ray Gately read some pieces relating to the theme.
The ‘Loughrea Barbers Group’ also performed on the night

Oranmore Library - Oranmore Twins with French Town of Clohars-Fouesnant

2011-11-29T14:50:00.000Z

Heritage Lectures in Oranmore Library - 30 November

2011-11-25T16:09:00.002Z

Over the Edge Open Reading in Galway City Library

2011-11-24T14:24:00.001Z

Social Inclusion Week in Loughrea Library

2011-11-22T14:53:00.002Z

Social Inclusion Week

Students from Gaelscoil Riabhach gave a lunchtime song recital on 20^th October 2011 as part of Social Inclusion Week. Family, friends and some members of St. Brendan’s Day Centre all enjoyed the tuneful performance. An audience member said it was like ‘a trip down memory lane’.
Well done Gaelscoil Riabhach!

Europe Direct Ballinasloe Library Samaritans Exhibition

2011-11-19T15:13:00.003Z

The Europe Direct Centre at Ballinasloe Library recently hosted an exhibition on the voluntary organization, The Samaritans. The aim of this was to celebrate the European Year of Volunteering and to bring together other voluntary organizations in the area.
The exhibition consisted of 24 panels consisting of photographs by Derek Spiers and showed volunteers at work in various locations throughout Ireland.....Samaritans volunteers work at helplines,throughout the community

in prisons,public events and they accept

emails and texts also.

The exhibition in Ballinasloe was opened by the Mayor of County Galway,Mr Michael 'Mogie' Maher .

Europe Direct Centres were set up by the European Commission to provide information to citizens on the daily work of the European Union.There are 8 centres in Ireland ..including 2 in Galway at Ballinasloe and An Cheathru Rua.

Seamus O'Kelly Players in Loughrea Library

2011-11-18T15:34:00.006Z

The Seamus O'Kelly Players present "The Collection", a series of excerpts, scenes and monologues taken from some well known, and not so well known plays, 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th November from 8.30pm in Loughrea Library.

Tickets €10/8 ( 2 for €15 in advance) from Connaughtons Foodstore, Barrack Street. Limited seating.
Further info. contact Fiona 086-8289918 or Martin 087-7996020.
Location: Loughrea Library, Church Street, Loughrea

Galway Best Library Service 2011

2011-11-16T16:01:00.003Z

At the recent Chamber's Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, Councillor Michael Maher, Mayor of the County of Galway accepted, on behalf of Galway County Council, the Best Library Service Award 2011 from Mr. Phil Hogan, TD, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. This is the second year in row Galway Libraries have won this award.

The mission of Galway County Libraries is to inspire more people to read more. Based on this, Galway County Libraries, in association with The Reading Agency (UK), has been running a Summer Reading Programme since 2006. This years Summer Reading Programme was themed: Nurturing Literacy and the Imagination

Each June children are invited to register for the programme at their local library where they receive a membership card/log card and other information. The programme is not competitive: children read at their own pace with the emphasis being on enjoyment, exploring different authors and genres, enabling the child to become a confident and discerning reader. Participation is free. As “Reading is the gateway skill that makes all other learning possible”: Galway County libraries have a key role to play in encouraging a love of books and reading.

Photographed left-to-right are: Eugene Cummins, Director of Services, Galway County Council, Councillor Michael Maher, Mayor of the County of Galway, Maureen Moran, Senior Executive Librarian, Galway County Council, Pat McMahon, County Librarian, Galway County Council.

Stupid Sock Creatures at Oranmore Library

2011-11-15T15:01:00.006Z

As part of the Children's Book Festival in Oranmore Library local artist and crafter Roisin Cúre held a series of workshops on how to make toys from old socks. Using the book Stupid Sock Creatures by John Murphy as inspiration, children had great fun learning to cut sew and stuff old socks to create unique and wacky soft toys. This book is available to borrow from Oranmore Library and is full of fantastic ideas for Christmas gifts.

Loughrea Library - 5th BAFFLE Poetry Festival 2011

2011-11-11T12:15:00.006Z

Loughrea library hosted ‘The BAFFLE Interview: Up close and Personal’ on Friday 28^th October. Author, psychoanalyst and former RTE producer/director and newscaster Michael Murphy was interviewed by author and broadcaster Liam Nolan for a very enjoyable event.

A musical introduction to the evening was provided by TheLoughrea Barbershop Group.Loughrea born Lola Montes regarded by many on the continent as a courtesan) was the inspiration for the 2011 theme of ‘Rumour has it’, maintaining BAFFLE’s reputation of being ‘

Ireland

’s quirkiest poetry society’.

The ‘BAFFLE Bard’ trophy, locally known as ‘the turnip’ is inscribed with the competition winner’s name each year and is housed in Loughrea Library.reputation of being ‘Ireland’s quirkiest poetry society’.

Best Library Service Award for Galway Libraries

2011-11-10T14:59:00.003Z

At the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards ceremony in Dublin last night Galway County Council won the Best Library Service Award 2011 for its Summer Reading Programme: Nurturing Literacy & Imagination

The Mayor, Councillor Michael Maher, accepted the award on behalf of Galway County Council from the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Mr. Phil Hogan, TD.

This is the second year in a row in which Galway County Council has won the Best Library Service Award.

Library Banners @ LAI Public Libraries’ Section Conference 2011 –

2011-11-08T14:38:00.003Z

Touring Puppet Theatre in Loughrea Library

2011-11-02T12:41:00.005Z

Julie-Rose McCormick brought her touring puppet theatre to Loughrea Library on recently.
She preformed an interactive ‘Punch and Judy’ style show for 1^st class students of Ballymanagh National School. The children enjoyed the show, offering up great advice and their opinions to the puppets!

Children’s Book Festival in Loughrea Library

2011-10-28T15:15:00.002+01:00

Children’s Book Festival: On Wednesday 12^th October 2011, storytellers Billy Teare and Kathleen O’ Sullivan visited Loughrea Library and entertained 2^nd and 3^rd class students from Ballymanagh National School.

Billy and Kathleen preformed stories, songs and poems. They also showed the children some arts and crafts.

More information on the storytellers at: www.billy teare.com

Oranmore Heritage lecture in Oranmore Library

2011-10-26T15:51:00.001+01:00

Laoise Ní Chomhraí visits Loughrea Library

2011-10-25T14:24:00.005+01:00

Children’s Irish writer Laoise Ní Chomhraí visited Loughrea library. 1^st and 2^nd class students from Gaelscoil Riabhach listened as Laoise explained about Japanese and Polish cultures.

Laoise used visual aids and her two books ‘Ag Taisteal le Tarlach sa tSeapáin’ and ‘Ag Taisteal le Tarlach sa Pholainn’ to enthuse the students.

Scavenger Hunt in Oranmore Library

2011-10-21T12:33:00.002+01:00

Oranmore Library is teaming with library detectives this month as part of the Children’s Book Festival 2011.

Local children have been trying their hands at detective work by taking part in a new Scavenger Hunt which is ongoing in Oranmore Library.
Participants must answer a set of questions using a map and clues and find the answers hidden around the library. There are six levels to complete in total, starting at the super-easy Bookworm all the way up to the mindbendingly difficult Wise Owl.

Not a Booker Winner?...Stephen Kelman's Mum

2011-10-19T14:58:00.008+01:00

When I think of my mother I think of a childhood summer spent waking to the smell of solder and the sound of Abba drifting up from a tinny transistor radio in the kitchen, in an unremarkable council house where I learned to read from the books she gave me.
I think of a winter walking her home from the evening job she'd taken packing peanuts so she could buy me the complete Hitchhiker's Guide series that I'd set my heart on for Christmas.
More than any writer, it was my mother who taught me the value of words: how the most prosaic, such as "family" and "duty" and "work", take the most living up to, and how a respect for words might one day bring me the compensations and comforts that she was doing her best to provide by working at two, sometimes three jobs at a time.

My mum is the product of a class who accepted their lot, whose toils were largely thankless and whose dreams defaulted to the modest – a yearly caravan holiday and decent coats for the kids. I'm also a product of that class, but one generation further along and with the benefit of her example – an example given quietly in unfussy acts of generosity – I am able to enjoy the kind of life that she could only aspire to on my behalf.

Stephen Kelman's Pigeon English (Bloomsbury) was shortlisted for the 2011 Man Booker prize and longlisted for the Guardian First Book award.

A version of this article appeared on p5 of the Guardian review section of the Guardian on Saturday 15 October 2011.

Loughrea Library - Free concerts

2011-10-18T14:49:00.009+01:00

Sunday 29^th September saw the Music Club stage their monthly free concert in Loughrea Library.
The Sunus Chamber Choir, conducted by Audrey Corbett, and the Yukatope String Quartet gave an uplifting performance. Songs performed included ‘Who shall have my lady fair’ by Pearsal and the amusing ‘Marry an ugly woman’ by De Paur.

Musical pieces included; Andante Cantabile from Quartet Number 1 in D, Opus 11 by Peter Tchaikovsky and Take the ‘A’ train by

Billy Strayhorn.
Two solo cello pieces were performed by Peter Sebestyen; Prelude from Cello Suite in G and Sarabande from Cello Suite Number 1 by J.S. Bach.

Date for your diary: Saturday October 22^nd at 8pm Leisureland- ‘Gilbert and Sullivan Extravaganza’- Galway Baroque Singers and RTE Concert Orchestra.

Tuam Library - Children’s Book Festival

2011-10-14T15:47:00.006+01:00

Tuesday 11^th October: Author Patricia Forde visited Tuam library entertained children from Castlehackett, Belmount and Mercy Primary.

Wednesday 19^th October: 11.00 – 12.00 Class visit from Sylane school 12.00 – 1.00
Mercy Primary school Yellow Flag Launch for Social Inclusion Week
Thursday 20^th October: Talk on Tuam Library for the Carers Association
Saturday 22^nd October: Latin American Spanish Workshop for adults.

Loughrea Library News

2011-10-13T16:27:00.003+01:00

On Saturday 24^th September 2011, Loughrea Library hosted the award ceremony for the Circus Stars Summer Reading Challenge.
Certificates, medals and goodie bags were administered by Mayor of Galway, Cllr. Michael Maher, County Librarian Pat McMahon and Senior Executive Librarian Maureen Moran, along with library staff Anne Callanan, Gretel Sullivan, Sheila Reilly and Stephanie Ronan.

Almost 200 children completed the reading challenge at Loughrea library and received their award on the day, along with prizes for best review, colouring and a raffle.

Our photo shows Mayor Maher with some young prize winners.

Galway Libraries - Children’s Book Festival Events

2011-10-11T12:00:00.005+01:00

The Children’s Book Festival runs for the month of October every year and sees libraries, schools and bookshops across the country hosting events with the very best Irish and international children’s writers and illustrators. This week some of the story-telling events taking place in Galway Libraries include:

Patricia Forde:

Tuam library 11^th October

Niall de Burca:

Monday 10^th Westside library

Tuesday 11^th Galway City Library

Wednesday 12^th: Dunmore, Ballygar and Tuam Libraries

Thursday 13^th: Athenry and Headford Libraries

Circus Stars Reading Challenge Awards in Ballybane Library

2011-10-05T14:11:00.004+01:00

Ballybane Library had it's award ceremony last Thursday and Friday for the children that completed the ‘Circus Stars’ Reading challenge this Summer.

419 children signed up to the challenge 250 children and 150 parents completed it.

CoCo the clown entertained the crowds.

Positive Ageing Week Photo Exhibition in Ballybane Library

2011-09-30T14:27:00.005+01:00

Positive Ageing Week is a festival which highlights the positive aspects of ageing and celebrates the contribution older people have made and continue to make to their communities. Age Action Ireland coordinates Positive Ageing Week.

The central aim of Positive Ageing Week is to dispel the many negative perceptions that surround ageing and to transform attitudes towards ageing and older people. We need to

An exhibition of photographs which will challenge negative public perceptions of ageing and older people is currently touring Ireland.celebrate the fact that we are living longer, that ageing is not a burden but an opportunity.

The exhibition features the winning images and some of the other images from Age Action’s Positive Ageing Week Photographic Competition that has been held over the past four years.

“If, for example, you fear ageing and believe it will be a time of poor health or isolation, then we would urge you to drop in and view these images of ordinary older people continue to enjoy their lives into their 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond,” Age Action chief executive Robin Webster said.

The exhibition will be on view in Ballybane Library during Positive Ageing Week, which runs from September 23 to October 1.

Top Picture: Kevin Molloy - ESB, Hildegard Naughton, Pete Mullineaux – Journeys Creative writing

Bottom PictureKevin: Molloy - ESB, Hildegard Naughton, Anna Marie Byrne – Age Action West

September Over The Edge -Open Reading Thursday, September 29th, 6.30pm-8pm Galway City Library

2011-09-28T15:34:00.008+01:00

Featured Readers are Aileen Armstrong, Davnet Heery and Moyra Donaldson. The evening will also see the announcement of the winners of this year’s Over The Edge New Writer of the Year. The competition judge is Elaine Feeney.

Moyra Donaldson was born and brought up in Co Down and has been described as one of the country’s most distinctive and accomplished writers: a poet whose voice is full of integrity and mystery. Her first full collection of poems Snakeskin Stilettos was published in 1998, followed by Beneath the Ice in 2001, both from Lagan Press. She has received four awards from the Arts Council NI, most recently, the Artist Career Enhancement Award. Moyra’s poems have featured on radio and television, including the Channel 4 production, Poems to Fall in Love With. Horse’s Nest, was published by Lagan Press in 2006 and described in Poetry Ireland Review as ‘one of the most enjoyable poetry books of the last few years.’ Her most recent collection, Miracle Fruit, was published by Lagan Press in November 2010.

Aileen Armstrong’s writing has appeared in the Stinging Fly, Three Times Daily, Some Blind Alleys, and Cuadrivio (in Spanish translation). In 2009, she graduated from the M.A. in Writing programme at NUIG, and in 2010, she received a literature bursary award from the Arts Council of Ireland. She lives in Co. Galway, and is currently working on a collection of short stories.

A long-time resident of Cois Fharraige, Connemara, Davnet Heery enjoys solitary walks along the shore and on the bog, day-dreaming. Recently graduated from the MA in Writing at NUIG she has had a giddy summer reading at literary festivals countrywide for the launch of the class anthology Bicycles with Umbrellas. Primarily a poet (she has been grant aided by Galway Co.Co. to work towards a collection Camellia) she also enjoys writing plays. Her short story The Little Girl in Pink was short-listed for The Francis Mc Manus award, 2011.

There will be an open-mic when the Featured Readers have finished. This is open to anyone who has a poem or story to share. New readers are always especially welcome. The MC for the evening will be Susan Millar DuMars.

Culture Night in Galway City Library

2011-09-22T11:07:00.000+01:00

Arts Festival opens in Clifden Library

2011-09-17T12:35:00.005+01:00

The opening event of the Arts Festival in Clifden Library on thursday 15th September saw poet and short story writer Susan Millar DuMars read from her first collection of short stories, Lights in the Distance.

Poet and writer Susan Lindsay who lives in Galway gave a reading. Whispering the Secrets is her first collection of poetry.

Tim Mullarkey, fiction writer, psychotherapist and teacher gave a reading of his work.

'Connections' Exhibition in Ballybane Library

2011-09-14T14:51:00.005+01:00

‘Connections’ is an Art exhibition presently on display in Ballybane Library painted by the Service Users from St. Kevins of the John Paul Centre, Ballybane. It was launched by James Harold

Oranmore Library Knitting Club

2011-09-10T14:28:00.004+01:00

Oranmore library had a very creative summer with the children’s knitting club which ran every Tuesday during the summer holidays. The children loved trying out new things like knitting with straw, making pom poms, knitting with beads and 7 cord braiding.

They had a wonderful collection of bags, headbands, hats and teddybears to show off at the end of the 8 weeks and were very proud of all their hard work.

Man Booker Shortlist 2011

2011-09-08T14:39:00.003+01:00

The Man Booker Prize 2011 shortlist has been released, overlooking Alan Hollinghurst, the early favourite to scoop the prize when the longlist was announced in July.

Previous nominee Julian Barnes makes the cut, alongside debut authors AD Miller, for Snowdrops, and Stephen Kelman with Pigeon English, also longlisted for the Guardian First Book Award.

They are joined by Carol Birch (Jamrach's Menagerie), Patrick deWitt (The Sisters Brothers) and Esi Edugyan (Half Blood Blues).

Last year the Booker was won by Howard Jacobson for his comic novel The Finkler Question.

The winner of the 2011 Man Booker Prize for Fiction will be announced on Tuesday 18 October at a dinner at London’s Guildhall and will be broadcast on the BBC.

The winner will receive £50,000 and each of the six shortlisted authors, including the winner, will receive £2,500 and a designer bound edition of their book.

Janis Ian makes interesting speech on libraries

2011-09-06T14:54:00.007+01:00

Janis Ian the songwriter, performer, and author with 9 Grammy Nominations and who had a big international hit with "At Seventeen" in 1975 made an interesting speech on libraries to School Librarians in Nashville Public Schools August 9th 2011.

“We artists have a great affinity with you librarians, for many reasons, not the least of which is that we exist in large part to educate, and to protect. To make order out of chaos, and to teach others to do the same. To keep the dreams of a nation, of a people, safe for future generations. To make those dreams available to everyone – not just the wealthy or beautiful, not just the people of one race or one colour or one religion – but available to everyone who dares to dream of something bigger than themselves.

At school, when I looked around at my schoolmates, I didn’t see anyone remotely like me. I longed for friends, people I could talk to about things that were important to me, but I met none. A librarian, Mrs. Anna Baker, was my first true friend – someone who listened carefully, responded truthfully, and gave me every scrap of knowledge she could muster through the books she controlled.

I lived at the library. I lived there because no one judged me. I lived there because there, and only there, did I feel free to explore myself.

The library taught me that somewhere out there were others like me. The library promised that one day, when I was old enough, I would meet them at last. An artist is a citizen of the world, bound by no convention, tied by no borders. We are homeless from the start; we do not have the refuge of conformity, of predictability. Artists need a place of refuge, just as children need a place of refuge… and the world needs its artists, just as it needs its children.

Books leave their language on our souls. They remind us of ourselves at our best, and teach us what we can be. They carry our longing for the stars, and point us toward them when we are too earthbound to do it ourselves.

I hope that every librarian is as kind as Mrs. Baker, who corresponded with me regularly until her death, and whose last letter to me recommended several books she’d recently read.”

The full text of what Janis Ian had to say is at:

http://www.mnps.org/Page84016.aspx.

www.janisian.com,

Tuam Arts Festival Exhibitions in the Library

2011-09-03T10:26:00.006+01:00

Stephen Quinn is an artist working in metal for over a decade in the West of Ireland. He views iron as a functional bridge between natural and functional forms, drawing from influences in European Nouveau style and the contemporary landscape around him.

"In Arthur Danto's book Nietzsche as Philosopher he discusses the idea of idem potency, the idea that every cell in the body, not just the brain, retains memories, both individual and collective."

The artist creates cell like structures and incorporates found objects in these organic felted vessels. Texture, colour and detail play an important part in these pieces.

Jim Kavanagh is a London born, Galway based artist. He has had numerous successful shows both in the U.K. and Ireland.

Jim's paintings are formed using techniques (scumbling and glazing)of the old masters Rembrandt and Turner. He creates his own responses to landscapes and skyscapes, creating timeless images invoking a sense of place both real and imaginary.

Live Portrait Painting in Oranmore Library

2011-08-31T10:48:00.006+01:00

As part of the Celtic Shore Festival and National Heritage Week a live portrait painting took place in Oranmore Library on Saturday the 27^th of August.
Local artist John O’Regan painted the portrait of a local Oranmore resident over the course of the day.
This was a unique and fascinating opportunity to see an artist at work and watch the portrait as it developed from

a simple sketch to a finished work of art.

Galway's Cycling Heritage - Galway City Library

2011-08-21T04:29:00.003+01:00

Circus Stars in Tuam Library

2011-08-06T14:46:00.006+01:00

Over 650 children are currently registered for the Summer Reading Challenge ‘Circus Stars’ Children have also been enjoying story times and art and craft.

Upcoming events:

Teddy Bear’s Picnic on Friday 12^th August at 11.30.

Around the World for a Story: Monday 15^th August at 11.00.

Creative Radiant Child Yoga: Monday 15^th August at 1.00.

Creative Writing Workshop: Wednesday 17^th August at 11.00.

Galway Libraries Summer Reading Challenge continues in all libraries

2011-07-27T16:20:00.001+01:00

‘Summer Completion Programme Camp’ in Ballybane Library

2011-07-26T15:12:00.002+01:00

Well known story teller Niall de Búrca came to Ballybane Library on Wednesday 13^th July to tell stories to the children from the ‘Summer Completion Programme Camp’

Ten Top Craft books for The 2011 Year of Craft in Oranmore Library

2011-07-23T12:58:00.001+01:00

2011 is the Year of Craft and to celebrate Oranmore Library has added lots of new craft books to their collection. If you think you’d like to learn something new, renew your interest in an old hobby or even sell your wares online we have lots of titles to suit.

The following titles are some of the new craft books available to borrow now at Oranmore Library:

Cherished by Kim Hargreaves – A collection of patterns from her latest knitwear designs.

Modern Top-Down Knitting by Kristina McGowan- A book full of great instructions for getting the perfect fit from you knitwear.

The Ultimate Book of Baby Knits by Debbie Bliss – A collection of 50 of the most popular designs from the Queen of baby knitwear design.

Amigirumi! Super Happy Cute Crochet by Elisabeth A. Doherty – Lots of cute crochet animals following the Japanese crochet craze.

Crochet Unravelled by Claire Bojczuk- perfect for anyone learning to crochet.

The Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin – A great guide for the enterprising crafters looking to sell their work.

Felt Furnishings by Anne Kyyro Quinn – A beautiful book of contemporary designs with great instructions on how to make things from cushion covers to placemats all from felt.

Stupid Sock Creatures by John Murphy – Ever wondered what to do with those odd socks lurking in the bottom of the drawer? This book has the answers.

Gifts for Kids to Make by Cheryl Owen

The Crafty Kid by Kelly Doust – Two great books full of rainy day activities.

For information on the 2011 year of craft visit www.craftinireland.com

Circus Stars in Ballybane Library Launch

2011-07-21T15:17:00.000+01:00

The recent Launch of Ballybane Library Summer reading Challenge

Human Library in Westside Library

2011-07-19T16:21:00.000+01:00

Launch of Westside Library Writers’ first book

2011-07-15T16:14:00.002+01:00

The Westside Library Writers are launching their first book, Monday Miscellany, on Tuesday 19^th July at 5.30 pm in Westside Library as part of the Westside Arts Festival events. The book will be launched by James Harrold, Galway City Arts officer. The Westside Arts Festival Open Mic night will follow at 6.30 pm, hosted by Kevin Higgins. The event is free and all are welcome.

Monday Miscellany is the group’s first published collection. It is a collection of memories, poems and prose pieces. The book will be available for purchase on the night. The writers have previously showcased their work at Open Mic nights during the Westside Arts Festival.

The Westside Library Writers were formed in 2008 as part of the Bealtaine Festival, a festival that celebrates creativity in seniors. The group has expanded and includes all age groups from the local community. The group attend creative writing classes, three times a year, facilitated by Galway poet Kevin Higgins, in Westside Library.

This event is taking place as part of Westside Arts Festival and for more information please contact Cora or Liz in Westside Library on (091) 520616.

Mystery in Oranmore Library

2011-07-14T14:41:00.006+01:00

Oranmore library recently held a day of mystery for its members. Borrowers were encouraged to borrow a book specially selected by the Library staff. There was a twist however- all the books were wrapped in brown paper so that library members had no idea what they were bringing home with them.

Adults and children alike willingly took the plunge and were pleasantly surprised to find books they may never have chosen by themselves. Many borrowers reported back that they found authors they had never heard of, or tried new genres such as poetry or biographies.

Don’t you love the feeling that you get when a parcel arrives in the post or somebody gives you a specially wrapped p

resent? Everybody was very excited to bring home their unique gift of a book specially selected and wrapped by our librarians in Oranmore.

Along with our mystery check out we also had a Good Reads

Wall. Library members were asked to add a post-it the wall of authors the loved and hated. We had three categories:

Treat; What would you read as a treat?

Challenge: What was your most challenging read?

Bargepole: What wouldn’t you touch with a bargepole?

Everyone loved taking part and our Bargepole Wall in particular generated lots of discussion and controversy.

Watch out for our next mystery day in the library coming soon!

2011-07-13T16:15:00.001+01:00

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Clifden Library - Write a Book Competition

2011-07-12T14:36:00.003+01:00

Seven students of St. Caillin's National School in Aillebrack, took part in the "Write a Book" Competition 2011 Students range from 3rd to 6th Class. All seven books were presented to Clifden Library on Tuesday the 28th June.
The books will be on display in Clifden Library for the summer.

Outside Clifden Library with their Books;
Tadgh O'Neill - Ryans Story, Francesca Mc Donagh - Sweet Pea Valley, Grainne King - The True Story of Goldilocks, Amy Roberts - Amy's Favourite Foods, Eimear Roche - Animal Pourquoi Tales, Oscar Coneys- Max is Lost and Alone, Celia O'Neill - A Long Book of Poems & Short Stories

Eurochild Anthology launch in Galway City Library

2011-07-08T15:32:00.001+01:00

24 Hours in Galway...City Library, Augustine Street

2011-07-06T14:25:00.002+01:00

“Summer Reading Challenge”

2011-07-02T15:49:00.005+01:00

Galway County Libraries are inviting all children to participate in the Summer Reading Challenge and discover the joy and pleasure of reading. This year’s theme is “Circus Stars”. Join the “Circus Stars” and get “Reading Stars”.

The Summer Reading Challenge takes place during July and August in all Branch Libraries and Mobile Library. It is free; all children have to do is go along to their local library and get their reading log card. It is not a race or competition, all you have to do is read and enjoy at least six books. There are selected books to help you make your choice. Reading Certificates and medals will be awarded to all children who reach the target of six books.

The Summer Reading Challenge focuses on the joy and pleasure of reading. Studies by the OECD show that children who read for pleasure are more likely to do better than does who don’t.

Last year over two thousand children were presented with Reading Certificates. The feedback from parents and teachers was very positive. Reading during the summer helps children retain and improve their reading skills. We are asking all parents and families to read with their children supporting and encouraging them.

For further information contact your Local Library or Library Headquarters 091- 562471 or email info@galwaylibrary.ie.

Ballinasloe Library and Europe Direct Centre Summer Reading and Arts Project

2011-06-29T15:37:00.006+01:00

The Summer Reading and Arts project runs parallel with Ballinasloe Library and Europe Direct Centre's normal Summer Reading Club. The AIMS of this project are;

To encourage an awareness and appreciation of Europe and European issues through exploring stories from different countries and cultures.
To encourage an appreciation and interest in books and reading.
To encourage tolerance and acceptance of difference.
To have FUN!!
To learn new creative skills
To encourage personal and group development.

Participants/Numbers :Young people aged 7-11 yrs

Book Reading - Open Attendance
Wednesday Workshops - Max 15 per group.Booking is recommended

Book Reading -Tuesday,12th July-11.30am-12.30pm
Workshop 1 - Wednesday 3rd August-11.30-1pm
Workshop 2 - Wednesday 10th August-11.30-1pm
Workshop 3 - Wednesday,17th August-11.30-1pm

Programme Synopsis;

The Book Read session will introduce the theme of Tales of Europe and will include songs, movement, stories and folk tales from different European traditions/cultures.Wednesday workshops will introduce 2 stories in greater depth.The group will explore where the story comes from, the writer,original written language and relevant cultural traditions.Participants will be given the opportunity to design and create their own book cover relating to the stories using assorted papers,pens,collage materials etc. The designs will be exhibited in the library with information about the original text.

Writers will include Astrid Lindgren- Sweden, The Brothers Grimm- Germany,Hans Christian Anderson-Denmark, Tove Jansson- Finland, Alf Proysen-Norway as well as more traditional folk tales from Europe.

Social Inclusion Awareness Week 2011 - Deadline 15th July

2011-06-22T12:50:00.004+01:00

Click on the image above to enlarge

Creativity and the Library

2011-06-17T11:43:00.009+01:00

The Galway Ensemble in Residence, The Con Tempo String Quartet, performed this week in Portumna, Ballinasloe and Gort Libraries.

They provided the kind of experience for the public which Thomas Rehak, the Chief Librarian of the Municipal Library in Prague, referred to when he spoke at the MetLib Conference in New York last week.

Tomas Rehak said:

"The Public Library must be a place where people want to be. They must be beautiful places...living spaces...places where people can meet"

We should support creativity
We should inspire creativity
We should promote creativity
We should facilitate creativity

Libraries supporting those who want to understand the World and themselves

Contempo Quartet in Gort Library

2011-06-14T16:22:00.004+01:00

Come hear the Galway Ensemble in Residence, ConTempo Quartet on June 15th in Gort Library @ 8:00 p.m.
Free Admission to all Concerts, and early arrival is advised.

The Galway Ensemble-in-Residence selected ConTempo Quartet to be the heart of a music development programme for Galway City and County. Based in NUI Galway, ConTempo began their residency in January 2003.

The residency is designed to bring a love of music to new people and new venues, and to enhance the experience of those already involved in music.

The Secret of Kells: Tuam Library

2011-06-08T14:31:00.005+01:00

The Secret of Kells:

As part of the ‘One Book, One Tuam’ project, Midie Corcoran from Earwig Arts Festival, worked with Tuam schools to create a Giant Book of Kells, filled with stories of Finn McCoole and Irish legends.
The giant book is 6 foot in height and 4 foot in width and is on display in the children’s area.

3 Rivers Storytelling Festival

2011-06-03T15:41:00.012+01:00

• Suzanne Hogan is a native Australian now settled in Athlone.She trained at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and has worked in theatres internationally. She investigates via performance how people understand their culture and society through stories, play and dance.She has enjoyed a year long residency in Athlone’s Dean Crowe Theatre as well as several Director- in-Schools programmes as part of Westmeath County Councils Arts initiative. She has done several community projects for the Percent for Arts Scheme working with international choreographers Jeannine Maguire-Lowry and Rionach Ni Neill.

• Liz Weir has worked with all age groups for over thirty years promoting the traditional art for which Ireland is world famous. A children’s librarian by training, she now travels the world telling stories to adults and children, organising workshops on storytelling, and speaking at courses for parents, teachers and librarians. She was the first winner of the International Storybridge Award for “exemplary work in promoting storytelling between Ireland and other countries”. She is the director of the Ulster Storytelling Festival and has been a featured teller at major festivals in Ireland, England, Scotland and in the U.S.

• Danielle Allison comes from an educational background. She has worked with children in schools, libraries and festivals all over Ireland. Danielle tells a wide range of stories, which often involve audience participation. She is a founder member of The Dublin Yarnspinners .Now settled in Athlone, she is committed to bringing the t

raditional Artform of storytelling to the Midlands and is Director of the Three Rivers Storytelling Festival.

• Simone Schummelfeder grew up in the small German town of Beverungen Weserbergland. Her father inspired in her a love of stories early on. At university she learned the power of storytelling as a teaching tool. In 2006 she spent the summer studying with renowned Irish teller Liz Weir. She and her

sister are the authors of a book for children titled Ruprecht Storchschnabel -die Abenteuer des zu vorletzt Geborenen der Elfen (Rupert Stork-beak – The Adventures of the Last of the Last-born of the elves).

• Liz Warren, a fourth-generation Arizonan, is the direcotor of the South Mountain Community College Storytelling Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. She has performed nationally and in Ireland and England. Representing SMCC, she is the producer of the annual Mesa Storytelling Festival in Mesa, Arizona. Her new textbook, The Oral Tradition Today: An Introduction to the Art of Storytelling was published in 2008. Every summer she comes to Ireland to teach “The Irish Storytelling Tradition” as part of Mesa Community College’s Study Abroad Ireland Program.

• Aideen McBride often used storytelling in her at Primary School in Ballymun, Dublin,Now a full time storyteller She has told her stories at the National Museum in Dublin, Cultra Folk Museum in Belfast and at many, many

summer festivals. Her stories, sad and funny by turns, include yarns and folktales handed down to her by her father in Carlow. She loves to include her audience in the stories, many of which have a participatory element. Audiences of all ages will enjoy the spell Aideen weaves with her imaginative and warm delivery of these stories from the Irish tradition.

3 Rivers Storytelling Festival in East Galway Libraries

2011-05-31T10:23:00.001+01:00

Like to try reading Finnegan’s Wake?!

2011-05-27T15:13:00.004+01:00

A new Italian translation of Joyce’s Finnegans Wake was released in the last days and it returns to us an interesting point of view about the author.
Luigi Schenoni, President of “The James Joyce Italian Foundation”, says that Joyce is a genius: and his especial genius is linguistic; he plays with words like no one else.
The reader remains confused in front of all these strange words, phrases, unusual linguistic forms, abnormities and wonders.

Joyce, seen as an Irish revolutionary, loved the English language, but he was very aware that the languages spoken in the British and Celtic Islands were different (for example, Manx, Irish, Gaelic, Welsh…), and he knew that the language was an open system, in which you can mix all the languages with dialect, neologisms and dead locutions.

So, the language is life.

In the Finnegan’s Wake, we have to watch over not only Tim Finnegan, but the languages, for their internationalisation. Begin to read Joyce, for you will certainly be more intelligent, rich and alive.
In the Finnegan’s Wake, we have to watch over not only Tim Finnegan, but the languages, for their internationalisation. Begin to read Joyce, for you will certainly be more intelligent, rich and alive.

'Coffee and Craft' - Tuam library

2011-05-25T11:36:00.005+01:00

Three ‘coffee and craft’ sessions took place in Tuam library over the month of May.

These mornings consisted of knitting, crochet and quilting demonstrations along with a display of work by Tuam Apostolic Work.
Large numbers enjoyed a ‘cuppa’ and a chat as they observed or joined in the crafts.

Guaranteed (money back!) "Boredom Busters “ book lists for Summer 2011 from Galway City Library

2011-05-20T15:12:00.005+01:00

Click on an image to expand

Ballinasloe Library/Europe Direct Centre...Europe Day/Bealtaine and the European Year of Volunteering

2011-05-18T16:08:00.008+01:00

Some of the events in Ballinasloe Library/Europe Direct Centre for the recent Europe Day/Bealtaine and the European Year of Volunteering....

The people involved were :

Kilconnell Art Group....who celebrated the evening with their teacher, Maura Warde. There was music, song and dancing also.

Wheelchair Association.....with members from Ballinasloe and Tuam who provided a fantastic display of beautiful pieces of stained glass, crochet, artwork, needlepoint ect.

Bisto Children’s Book of the Year 2011

2011-05-17T15:01:00.001+01:00

Bisto Children’s Book of the Year & Éilis Dillon Award:
A Bit Lost by Chris Haughton

Judges’ Special Award:
The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers

Bisto Honour Award for Illustration:
Mac Rí Éireann by Caitríona Hastins, Andrew Whitson

Bisto Honour Award for Fiction & Children’s Choice Award:
Taking Flight by Sheena Wilkinson

Shortlisted:
Dancing in the Dark by PR Prendergast
The Lunatics Curse by FE Higgins
The Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear, Angela McAllister,
Kevin Waldron
Prim Improper by Deirdre Sullivan
Tiny Little Fly by Michael Rosen
Up and Down by Oliver Jeffers

Journeys CreativeWriting Programme in Galway City Library

2011-05-12T15:06:00.000+01:00

The Bealtaine Festival continues throughout May and Galway City Library will be the venue for the Journeys Creative Writing Programme. This Group meets through the weeks of May-June to celebrate Bealtaine and write spontaneously during the sessions in response to a variety of stimuli, covering a dizzy range of subjects .

9th May11-12.30pm

16th May 11-12.30pm

23rd May 11-12.30pm .

30th May 11-12.30pm

Anna-Marie Byrne of AgeActionWest, ph. 091 527831 will facillitate.

Moya Roddy reads in Inishbofin Library

2011-05-07T11:41:00.004+01:00

Moya Roddy will read in Inishbofin Library on Saturday 7th May at 5:00pm. This is one of the events in the eleventh annual Inishbofin Community Arts Festival.

Her stories have been published by Penguin, Serpent's Tail and Arlen House. Her latest collection Other People, has recently been published by Wordonthestreet.

She collaborated with Pete Mullineaux on Butterfly Wings which was broadcast on RTE Radio in 2010.

Photography Course for Bealtaine 2011 in Oranmore Library

2011-05-04T12:17:00.006+01:00

As part of the Bealtaine Festival 2011 Oranmore Library will hold a digital photography course.

Get tips on how to take the best photographs.
Learn how to utilise all the features on your digital camera.
Learn how upload your photos onto a computer and save onto a memory stick for printing.

There will be an opportunity to exhibit your photos in the library at the end of the course.

The course will run for four weeks, every Friday from 9.30am to 11.00am starting on the 6^th of May.

Course Requirements: The course is free but you must have your own point-and-shoot digital camera.

Places are limited. To book a place ring Oranmore Library at 091 792117

Bealtaine Festival Event in Tuam Library

2011-04-28T12:42:00.005+01:00

The Bealtaine festival is Ireland’s ground-breaking celebration of creativity in older age.

Bealtaine means ‘May’ with all of its associations of fresh starts, emergence and renewal. From 1st to 31st May nationwide, there are opportunities for you to get involved, to try something different and to simply enjoy yourself. It is a chance to meet people, make something new, set your own challenge or share a tradition across the generations.

An Age & Opportunity initiative, the Bealtaine festival is Ireland’s biggest collaborative arts festival, and it enjoys an international reputation. It unites communities and

diverse organisations all over the country. In the last 16 years, it has grown to include libraries, museums, care settings, active retirement groups, national cultural organisations and local authority arts offices.

Kitchen Readings in Westside and Ballybane

2011-04-19T16:23:00.019+01:00

In conjunction with Galway Library Service, Westside and Ballybane Libraries, Cúirt hosted Kitchen Readings in a number of homes in Galway City residential areas during the week of the festival. Dublin poet Yvonne Cullen visited three houses in Westside and three houses in Ballybane during the week of Cúirt. Yvonne was accompanied by musicians and these informal gatherings were be open to all.

Press play on the player to the right to get a flavour of what happened at these events.

Headford Library

2011-04-13T14:33:00.007+01:00

12 interesting new books for younger readers which have just been added to stock in the Headford Library. Included are:

Sleepover at Gramma’s House. By Barbara Joosse. It’s hard to imagine a book about a grandmother-grandchild relationship that has more love, heart, and just plain silliness than this adorable offering.

Snook Alone. By Marilyn Nelson. After being separated from his master on a remote atoll, a little terrier dog becomes a reluctant explorer, finding delight and wonder amid his melancholy. Challenging but gorgeous poetry is matched by equally breathtaking paintings.

Bobbie Sparrow runs a story time in Headford Library for small children (babies-in-arms to 5 year olds) every Tuesday afternoon at 2.30pm. Bobbie has been running this story time successfully since 2004. It is a wonderful opportunity for parents to introduce their children to reading and language in a fun way

The top photograph shows the selection of books being displayed by Ms. Edel Talbot, Librarian, Headford Library, with Lucie Santona and Nicolas Milliere, who are both students of librarianship from the University of Dijon in France and who are on an internship with Galway County Library.

The bottom photograph children’s storyteller Ms. Bobbie Sparrow enjoying some of the new books with the children who attend her regular storytime in Headford Library.

April Exhibition in Galway City Library

2011-04-08T12:50:00.003+01:00

Limerick based artist and designer Paul Weerasekera.
is a self taught artist and has been painting for over 30 years. He has a degree in "Architecture and interior design" which he obtained in the U.K. but
gave up a lucrative career to pursue his first love, Painting.

He prefers the challenge of painting portraits, landscapes and imaginative pieces. He likes to experiment with color, light, texture and proportion.

His work will be on show in the City Library for the month of April.

East Galway Art Trail 2011 in Woodford and Ballinasloe/ED Libraries

2011-04-05T14:50:00.003+01:00

The 4th East Galway Art Trail continues with further exhibitions in Ballinsloe and Woodford libraries. The Art Trail is a project organized by Ballinasloe artist Joyce Little and the staff of Galway County Library who live and work in the East Galway region of Ballinasloe, Portumna, Killimor, Eyrecourt and Woodford.

Exhibition by John Soden in Ballinasloe Library on 6th April@7.30pm.
John works in the medium of paint. In his paintings he brings to life everyday scenes through the exploration of colour and its application to the canvas. His subject matter deals with people in various settings, be it street scene,horse fair or market place.He uses oil paint which allows him to layer on the paint in different stages to give depth and a rich vibrant colour. He is mainly self taught and has had a passion for art since childhood.

Exhibition by Peter Kelehan in Woodford Library on 13th April@7.30pm.
Peter works in the medium of paint, print and mixed media. A talented artist, he is inspired by the city of Galway,in which he lives and by his environment....in particular, the beauty of Galway Bay and its boats ,especially the Galway Hooker. Peter is committed to a sense of place and he is a graduate of GMIT.

Human Library at Westside Library

2011-03-30T10:46:00.003+01:00

Westside Library in association with the Westside Community Development Project and Galway County Council’s Social Inclusion Unit recently hosted Galway’s first ever Human Library.
On Wednesday March 16^th 2011 Westside Library became the Human Library where the ‘books’ could literally speak. There were many ‘readers’ in attendance who came to borrow a human ‘book’.

The human ‘books’ included an older person, a teenager, a traveller, a Muslim, a member of an Gardai Síochána and lots more. They represented groups of people who have experienced prejudice or stereotyping in their profession. The aim of the Human Library is the promotion of understanding and tolerance through dialogue and there was plenty of chat throughout the evening.
The immigrant worker book was the ‘bestseller’ on the night but all of the books were in high demand. Feedback from both books and readers was very positive. As one reader commented, ‘communication between humans is really essential’. The evening concluded with a choral recitation by the Westside Community choir. The conversations continued with refreshments and many new friendships were made on the night.

The Human Library was begun by Ronnie Abergel in Denmark and it is now an international event with over 120 events in 45 countries.

Fourth Forge Literature Festival events in Gort Library

2011-03-24T14:47:00.005Z

Gort will see its fourth 'Forge at Gort' literature festival commence on Friday, 25th March. A host of novelists, poets and musicians are due for this year's festival, which is organised by theWestern Writers' Centre, Ionad Scríbhneoiri Chaitlín Maude, Galway.
Renowned photographer, Joe Geoghegan, will exhibit elements of his famous exhibition of photos-and-poems from the eyes, quite literally, of many Irish writers - this exhibition opens at Gort Library on the 22nd March at 19.00 at which the festival will be launched - all are welcome.

FRIDAY MARCH 25TH
5pm – 6pm - Opening and exhibition of Tom Byrne painting of Lady Augusta Gregory – this painting is for sale in support of the festival and bids will be taken or announced at the opening - Sullivans Royal Hotel
John W. Sexton – poet Sarah Clancy – 7.pm Sullivans Royal Hotel Friday
The Poetry Chicks+ Miceál Kearney : Gort Library, 8pm

SATURDAY MARCH 26TH
Noel Monahan – poet; Kevin Kiely – poet and reviewer - Gort Library, 11 am, Saturday
Matt Mooney – with Paul Jeffcut – poetry & music, Patrick Stack: – Saturday 1pm - Gort Family Resource Centre
The Clare Three-Leggéd Stool Writers' Group – O'Grady's Bar, Gort 3pm
'Tea with George Moore' – an ensemble piece on the writers' life written by John Arden and Margaretta D'Arcy - Gort Family Resource Centre, 5pm.
Olaf Tyaransen/Clare Sawtell – launch of Clare' Sawtell collection - Brenda Malloy,

East Galway Art Trail 2011

2011-03-22T12:56:00.003Z

East Galway Art Trail 2011

The East Galway Art Trail, now in its fourth year, will,this year host artists Aishling Morin, Fiona Flaherty, Johnny Hession, Ann Hill, John Soden and Peter Kelehan.

The Art Trail is a project, organized by Ballinasloe artist, Joyce Little and the staff of Galway County Library who live and work in the East Galway region in Ballinasloe, Portumna, Killimor, Eyrecourt and Woodford.

Art and libraries merge and, in doing so both the artist and their work are brought into the wider community in a socially inclusive way, by using the facilities available in rural libraries as focal points and points of interaction.

The artists live within local communities themselves....therefore, by bringing the two together, smaller communities can benefit from and be exposed to the enjoyment of art and engage with their librarys facilities at the same time.
Thus, the Art Trail aims to expose the wider community to art, in its various forms.

Exhibition by Aishling Morin in Killimor Library 16^th March @7.30pm
Librarian; Marie Mullins

Aishling works with acrylic paint. In some of her latest work, she has employed the use of painting knives to make interesting shapes, not possible with brushes.While her work is mainly abstract and expressionistic, her inspiration is varied:from coloured glass, rocks, various animals, plants and marine life which are a rich source of form, colour and texture. She tends not to impose titles on her paintings, unless a particular work reveals a title as she feels a word can influence the experience of the viewer and suggest something that perhaps they might not have seen and affect their perception of the work, thus changing their individual experience with the piece. Aishling studied at DIT and GMIT.

Exhibition by Fiona Flaherty anf Johnny Hession in Portumna Library 23^rd March @7.30pm.
Librarians; Teresa Tierney, Louise Harte.

Fiona Flaherty works in the medium of paint. Her interest lies in exploring female identity through objects, the body and the imagination. She studied Art and Design at Moate Business College,during which she was chosen to fulfil 3 weeks work experience in Barcelona,Spain. She is now in 3^rd year in Cluain Mhuire, GMIT Studying Art and Design,specialising in paint but also working with a wide range of materials.

Johnny Hession works in the area of sculpture.He uses video, photography and performance as a way to express his work.He explores the notion of identity,territory and rituals. He used the idea of the door as a transportal and also as fear of the unknown and,as a confined space in open space. He uses his hair and body in a way that comes across as masculine/feminine gestures. His hair is expressed in a spiritual/ritualistic manner by quick movement giving mask like features, having these differebt characters in the inner self. Johnny studied at GMIT.

Renmore Active Retired Association - Ballybane Library

2011-03-18T12:34:00.006Z

Renmore Active Retired Association launched their 2011 Art Exhibition in Ballybane Library recently. 43 paintings by members of this

group will be on show until the 31^st March. It was opened by Chairperson Eithne Carey and Local Historian

William Henry. It is always good to see the talent of

Local residents

Human Library in Westside Library

2011-03-16T14:29:00.005Z

As part of Library Ireland Week 2011 Westside Library will host Galway’s first ‘Human Library’. This event will be held at Westside Library on Wednesday 16^th March 2011 between 6.00 pm and 8.00 pm.
In the Human Library books are people! The shelves are full of people who frequently face prejudice. In the Human Library you can chat to these human books and change your preconception of them and maybe theirs of you.

Galway Library Service plan to have ‘books’ for the following stereotypes: Traveller (ethnic group in Ireland), disabled, lone parent, early school leaver, refugee, Muslim, former homeless, Irish language speaker, member of An Garda Síochána, and Blonde Woman. The titles of our books all represent people who the local organizers know have been stereotyped in the community.

The Human Library is prepared with funding from the Social Inclusion Unit of Galway County Council to cover the running costs for the event. As always, the services of the Human Library are free to its readers.

For more information please contact Westside Library at 091-520616

'Adventures in Music’ - Ballybane Library

2011-03-15T14:26:00.006Z

Jimmy Fitzgerald came to Ballybane Library in early March to entertain children from Senior Infants of Scoil Dara in Renmore. This event was sponsored by ‘Adventures in Music’. The children were very inquisitive. They sang along to fun songs and were allowed to strum the guitar. A great musical treat for all.

Adventures in Music is a parent-run, non-profit organisation based in Galway, which was set up in 2004 in order to promote family-oriented musical events. The committee was formed by nine

mothers who met while attending Galway's Parent and Toddler groups.

Dedicated primarily to the cultural enrichment of children through music, Adventures in Music is aimed at providing children – and their families – with the opportunity to enjoy and learn about music, in a fun environment for both adults and children alike.

Édouard Glissant - Discover the roots to open itself to the world

2011-03-12T12:31:00.004Z

Portrait of the writer of Martinique dead recently at the age of 82

Discover the roots to open itself to the world

Édouard Glissant, the patriarch of the Caribbean literature, on last February 3rd is dead in Paris at age of 82. In his writings Glissant has strongly expressed that the World is lacerated between the fear of the globalization (it conforms and it cancels the differences) and the exasperation of the differences (that is it brings the people to stay isolated and to hate each others).

Once he wrote: “The roots do not sink into the darkness of ancestral origin, searching the purity, but they widen in surface as branches of a plant, to meet other roots and to shake them as hands."

This thought is direct expression of the " creolization." This word refers to the Creole, this language which is a mix between the French dialect spoken by master of the slaves and the language of the slaves themselves. It became the frank language of the Caribbean.

In the literature of Glissant we can find therefore the influences of the black slaves picked up from Africa, of the French masters of the slaves, of the Caribbean and of the people who later arrived, including the Indians, the Chinese and the Syrians.

Glissant has written numerous essays and novels. His masterpiece is The Fourth Century (1964), a narration of that four centuries in which the slaves' humanity, in the hold of the slave ships, leans out to life and history.

Édouard is hard in his report of the slavery but he is immune entirely from the vengeful resentment that would remove his interior liberty and his work.

This great author, well known in France and in the USA, accepted the limits of mutual human understanding (we have to learn to live with that limit) and in one of the last interviews he said: “we need to learn to live with the other and to love him, accepting to not be able to understand him and to be able to be understood by him.”

Adapted by Alberto Fostinelli, internship student with Galway Libraries, from an article in Corriere della sera written by Claudio Magris.

Westside Library Seisiún

2011-03-09T15:27:00.001Z

Library Ireland Week 2011 & Seachtain na Gaeilge - Westside Library

2011-03-04T14:48:00.003Z

As part of Library Ireland Week 2011 and Seachtain na Gaeilge, Westside Library will host the following events
.

‘Get into Reading’ – a reading group with a difference

The first ‘Get into Reading’ event will be held at Westside Library on Tuesday 8^th March 2011 between 6.30 pm and 8.00 pm. Get into reading is a reading group with a difference. Prose and poetry are read aloud on the night and it is then followed by a discussion on what was read. You don’t have to read aloud or even speak but if you like to hear literature read aloud, come along on the night. Guest readers from the BAFFLE Poetry Group will read at this first event. The event is free and all are welcome.

Seisiún at Westside Library
As part of Seachtain na Gaeilge, Westside Library is delighted to present local musicians, singers and creative writers for a medley concert. The Seisiún will take place on Friday 11 March 2011 between 3.00 pm and 5.00 pm. The will also be storytelling for children. The event is free and all are welcome.

For more information please contact Westside Library at 091-520616

Concord Exhibition at ED Ballinasloe Library

2011-03-02T14:31:00.004Z

An exhibition by the European NGO Confederation for Relief and Development CONCORD is on view at the Europe Direct Centre, Ballinasloe Library, until the end of March.

CONCORD represents over 1600 European Development and Relief NGO's and has a common drive to fight poverty and injustice. It aims to influence the policies and practices of the European Union so that the Union and its member states enhance social justice, equality and human rights throughout the world.

The confederation includes organizations such as :Dóchas, World Vision, Oxfam, Terre des Hommes, Caritas Europa, Save the Children, MVRO Slovak ngdo platform, NG Italiane to name only a few.

The photographs in this extensive exhibition give some idea of its work throughout the world today.

Europe Direct Centres were set up by the European Commission in partnership with the Library Council to make information on the European Union readily accessible to citizens.

The Babel Lecture: ''Exploring the Book' - Galway City Library

2011-02-25T14:26:00.004Z

The first Babel Public Lecture Series entitled 'Exploring the Book' will come to a close with a lecture by Dr Kate Quinn on Tuesday, 1 March, at 6.30pm in Galway City Library.
Titled ’Criminal Passions: The Perennial Appeal of Death and Detection’ it will be delivered by Dr Kate Quinn, Spanish, NUI Galway.

The lecture is open to members of the pubic and entrance is free.

According to Dr Lillis Ó Laoire, Head of the School of Languages, Literatures and Cultures, “Dr Kate Quinn’s enticingly ’noir’ title manages to mention two of the great themes, passion and death, and promises to bring the first series to an appropriately intriguing completion. Her talk will deal with crime fiction and inform us about why it is we are so drawn by books in this genre.”

There will be a reception before this final lecture from 6.00pm to 6.30pm. The series will be formally closed by Dr Edward Herring, Dean of the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies, NUI Galway.

Over the Edge - City Library

2011-02-23T15:12:00.001Z

Library Ireland Week

2011-02-19T14:49:00.000Z

'One Book, One Tuam'

2011-02-16T11:38:00.006Z

One Book, One Tuam”, a community based literacy project was launched in Tuam Library on Friday 11^th February by Storyteller Niall de Burca. This year is the third successful year and the book chosen for 2011 is ‘The Secret of Kells’ by Irish author Eithne Massey. This project involves classes from local primary and secondary schools along with Ability West, St Oliver’s and local groups all enjoying ‘The Secret of Kells’ and partaking in associated activities.
Events organized in conjunction with the project include music, art, drama and history workshops, all of which are free to attend. Author Eithne Massey will visit Tuam and read from her book and the finale of the project will be the viewing of the film. The objectives of the project are to promote literacy in the community, to involve local groups, clubs and schools in activities which promote inclusion in the community and to highlight the joy of reading for pleasure.

Ten Things You Should Know About Slow

2011-02-11T15:31:00.003Z

Don't rush through life. Dian Duchin Reed is a writer and poet who loves to garden and always takes time to smell the roses, lilacs and jasmine. Among "Ten Things You Should Know About Slow" she recommends that:

One of the most delightful (and insightful) ways to slow down is to take the time to read poetry daily. "And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow," wrote William Butler Yeats in "The Lake Isle of Innisfree."

Savour poems of all eras, categories and styles by choosing a book from our poetry section (we have hundreds by poets from all over the world on our shelves) and read one poem slowly.

10th Anniversary for Oranmore Library

2011-02-10T12:30:00.003Z

There have been over 500,000 visits to Oranmore Library since its opening ten years ago. New figures released as Oranmore Library celebrated its tenth birthday have shown that the public library registered 16,343 members and attracted over half a million visits through its doors since the facility opened in 2001. During the ten-year period since the facility opened on 19 January 2001, 546,156 books were also issued to readers.

The library project is the result of co-operation between Galway County Council and the Saint Mary’s Old Church Restoration Committee. The Old Church Restoration Committee commenced work on restoring the disused former Saint Mary’s Church in the early 1990s and won support from the National Heritage Council, Coillte Teoranta, the Irish American Partnership, FÁS and many local people.

In 1995, the Church Restoration Committee approached Galway County Council with a request that the restored church should house a new public library for Oranmore.

Following consultations initiated by Angela Kelly, Chairperson of the Church Restoration Committee, the building was leased to Galway County Council who, with assistance from the Department of Environment, completed the refurbishment of the building as a public library.

Reflecting on the milestone, Oranmore Librarian John Lawlor said that “the library looks forward to further successes through providing relevant and timely book collections, access to new technology and to hosting educational and cultural programmes.”

Mr Lawlor said the library is always keen to encourage new users and he welcomes all Oranmore residents or those working in the area to avail of what has become a much loved resource and community space.

Poetry as a Bridge to Romania - Portumna Library

2011-02-09T11:43:00.001Z