What's On
Wed. 5th June, 2013: Ballyhaunis Book Club - Ballyhaunis Library
Interested in books and reading? If so, come along to Ballyhaunis Book Club for an informal gathering of like minded book lovers.
The book selected for discussion at the June meeting is The Snowman by Jo Nesbo.
14th May, 2013: Castlebar Book Club - Castlebar Library
Interested in books and reading? Like a chance to let off steam about the most over-rated book ever? Or talk about the book that changed your life? Or the book that every man should read? If so, come along to the Castlebar Book Club, meeting at Castlebar Library, for an enjoyable evening with other like-minded book lovers. The book selected for the May 2013 meeting is Capital by John Lanchester.
Thurs. Apr 25th 2013: Michael Longley in Louisburgh Library - Louisburgh Library
Michael Longley, born in Belfast and one of Ireland’s most distinguished and acclaimed poets, is author of over a dozen collections of poetry. He is winner of the Whitbread Poetry Prize, the Hawthordon Prize, the TS Eliot Prize, the Irish Times Irish Literature Prize for Poetry and also holds the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry as well as the Ireland Professorship of Poetry. Longley was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2010 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.
Come along to Louisburgh Library on Thursday April 25th for a rare opportunity to hear one of Ireland’s greatest living poets. Places are limited so come early. Reading starts at 7.30pm.
Sat 27th April, 2013: Belmullet Book Club - Belmullet Library
Books and Reading - interested? If there is nothing you like more than sitting down and reading a good book why not come along to the Belmullet Library Book Club and share some enjoyable and interesting discussions with other reading buffs! New members always welcome.
The books selected for discussion at the next meeting of the book club, Sat 8th June, 2013 are a selection of titles by author Kate Kerrigan prior to her visit to the book club on June 13th, 2013
Check out previous book club reads and their star rating
Monday Apr 22nd, 2013:
Launch of the Music Generation Mayo Library Resource by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny
- Castlebar Library
Castlebar Library Monday Apr 22nd - the place to be! All welcome for the launch of the new Music Generation Mayo Library Resource & County Community Forum Instrument Bank by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny @ 7.00pm. Great entertainment on the evening by the Killocraun Drummers and members of the Music Generation Mayo Traditional Ensemble
March, 26th 2013: New Swinford Library - Swinford Library
Mayo County Council, have opened a beautiful new library and cultural centre in Swinford. It is located on Station Road in the old railway station and comprises over 300 sq metres of library space plus a huge cultural centre which will house exhibitions, concerts, lectures and other events.
Check out the Photo Gallery of the opening of new Swinford Library
New opening hours and contact details
March 4th-17th, 2013: Seachtain na Gaeilge in Mayo Libraries - Castlebar, Ballina, Béal an Mhuirthead, Ballyhaunis & Charlestown.
Seachtain na Gaeilge, the rather more than a week-long festival of events celebrating the Irish language, heritage, culture, and life, runs from March 4th to 17th. Events will take place across the county, involving music, film, theatre, talks, competitions, storytelling and more. Select link above for full list of events in Mayo libraries.
Wed. March 20th, 2013: Kiltimagh Book Club - Kiltimagh Library
Interested in books and reading? If so, come along to Kiltimagh Library for an enjoyable, informal discussion on all kinds of everything (usually the third Wednesday of the month @ 8:00pm).
The book selected for discussion at the February meeting is The Walled Garden by Catherine Dunne.
Go to Kiltimagh Book Club for a full list of books read and discussed.
Tues. 5th March, 2013: Ballinrobe Book Club - Ballinrobe Library
Ballinrobe Book Club meets once a month in Ballinrobe Library but does not meet during the summer months of July and August.
The bookclub is an informal gathering of like-minded booklovers and all are welcome. The book chosen for next meeting in March is The Road Home by Rose Tremain
Fri 21st Dec., 2012: Carol Singing in aid of the Irish Wheelchair Association - Castlebar Library
The annual Carol Singing will take place in Castlebar Library on Friday 21st Dec at 2.15 pm in aid of the Irish Wheelchair Association. Have a late lunch with mince pies and mulled wine and support a good cause. All welcome for what promises to be a wonderfully atmospheric and joyful occassion.
Closes Fri. 21st Dec. 2012 - reopens Wed 2th Jan., 2013: Christmas and New Year closing details - Mayo County Library
Mayo County Library will close at 5.00pm on Fri. 21th Dec., 2012 and will re-open at 10.00am on Wed. 2th Jan., 2013. As opening hours vary between libraries, please check individual libraries for local variations or contact library headquarters
Fri 7th Dec., 2012: Christmas cheer with the ward9writers, Castlebar Library - Castlebar Library
You are invited to an evening of festive prose, mince pies and mulled wine, carol singers and all things Christmassy.
We look forward to you company!
Tues 4th Dec 2012: Tommy Fleming launches his autobiography 'Let Me Begin' - Castlebar Library
In 2012, following the unexpected death of both his parents, Tommy Fleming took a break from his musical career to evaluate his life and his music and to try to decide where his next steps would take him. During this break from his music Tommy started to write an account of his life and his career. 'Let Me Begin' is the result. An enthralling read for Tommy Fleming fans, the book chronicles Tommy’s life with stories from his childhood, his family life and his musical career .
'Let Me Begin' will be launched by well-known Mid West radio presenter Tommy Marren and the Castle Bookshop and Mayo County Library are delighted to host the launch.
Nov 20th 2012: Talk on Placenames with Fiachra MacGabhann - Claremorris Library
Uncover the story of the landscape around you at this Talk on Placenames with Fiachra MacGabhann. There are over 60,000 townlands in Ireland and over 3,000 of those are in Mayo, divided into 72 parishes. Placenames are an important archive of the county itself, that gives us an insight into the language, personal names, surnames, settlement paterns, ecclesiastical history and archaeology of an area.
Fáilte roimh gach éinne, especially those who have questions about placenames in or near their own townland.
Sat 10th Nov., 2012 : Children's author Judi Curtin visits Mayo - Westport Library
Judi Curtin, one of Ireland’s best loved and most popular children’s writers will pay a visit to Westport Library to read and talk about her work. Judi was born in London, and grew up in Cork. She has published seventeen books for adults and children, including the Alice and Megan series, and the Friends Forever series. Her most recent book, Leave it to Eva, was published in September 2012. Judi now lives in Limerick with her family. Judi will be in Westport Library at 3.00pm on Saturday November 10th and the event is free. All are welcome.
Sat Oct 20th, 2012: Carmel Uí Chellaigh launches her new children's book "Spidey" - Ballinrobe Library
Colmán Ó Raghallaigh will launch and celebrate the publication of Carmel Uí Cheallaigh’s first children's picture book as Gaeilge, “Spidey” in Ballinrobe Library. Carmel (née Maloney) is from Kilmaine and has had numerous short stories and articles published in “Ireland’s Own”,”Woman’s Way” and the “Bray Arts Journal”. She was shortlisted in the Penguin/RTÉ Guide inaugural short story competition in 2010 and Carmel works as a Senior Librarian in Dundrum Library,Dublin
Cuirfidh Leabharlann Chontae Mhaigh Eo fáilte Uí Cheallaigh roimh chuile dhuine, idir óg agus aosta, ag an seoladh speisialta seo.
Entries by Sept 21st, 2012: Enter Inspiring Poetry Tree Competition - Mayo Library
INSPIRING POETRY TREE SEEKS SUBMISSIONS
Mayo County Council Arts Office, Library Service and Artsquad are delighted to celebrate All Ireland Poetry Day which takes place Thursday 4th of October 2012. Mayo Artsquad are using their creative abilities to design a Poetry Tree. We are looking to you for submissions of inspiring poetry to dress the tree. The poetry submissions can be an original poem or a favourite existing poem, the only requirement is that the poem has inspired you in some way.
Poems should be marked Poetry Tree and can be handed in/posted/e-mailed to any Mayo Library or sent to Mayo County Council Arts Office by Friday 21st of September.
Thurs. Sept27th, 2012: Award winning poet Michael Longley to read Mayo Libraries - Louisburgh Library
Unfortunately this reading is cancelled due to a family illness
Born in Belfast, Michael Longley, one of Ireland’s most distinguished and acclaimed poets and author of over a dozen collections of poetry, will hold a reading in Mayo when he visits Louisburgh Library on Thursday September 27th. He is winner of the Whitbread Poetry Prize, the Hawthordon Prize, the TS Eliot Prize, and the Irish Times Irish Literature Prize for Poetry. He is holder of the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry as well as the Ireland Professorship of Poetry.
16th July - 13th August: Martin Sheridan Exhibition - Castlebar Library
In keeping with the Olympic spirit, this exhibition celebrates the brilliant career of Mayo born athlete, Martin Sheridan (1881-1918) who won nine Olympic medals for the USA in the 1904, 1906 and 1908 Olympic Games.
There is also a display of Castlebar Parish Magazines which feature some of the towns best known personalities and public buildings on the front/back covers.
July and August 2012: Go For Gold - Ballyhaunis Library
This Summer throughout the months of July and August, Ballyhaunis Library will again run its popular Summer Reading Challenge. This year's challenge is called Go For Gold and all the books included have a 'sports' theme. So why not call into the library and join a winning team.
Thurs., 26th July, 2012: "Call of the Lark" author Maura Mulligan visits the Library bookclub - Kiltimagh Library
Maura Mulligan, a Mayo native has just launched her memoir, 'Call of the Lark', at the Irish Consulate in New York. Her book tells the story of her life growing up in Aghamore in the 1940's & 50's and behind the walls of a Franciscan convent in the 1960s.The author will attend the Book Club in Kiltimagh Library to do some readings and everybody is very welcome.
Thursday 26th July 2012.: Storytime in Crossmolina Library - Crossmolina Library
Storytime for children aged 4 and upwards in Crossmolina Library on Thursday 26th July as part of the annual Crossmolina Community festival.
July & August 2012: Titanic Centenary Exhibition in Crossmolina Library - Crossmolina Library
Crossmolina Library hosts the Titanic Centenary Exhibition this July and August. The Exhibition looks at all aspects of the Titanic from its building in Belfast to its sinking in the Atlantic. A section of the Exhibition focuses on the fourteen people from Addergoole who boarded the ship at Queenstown, Co. Cork.
July & August 2012: Kids Summer Reading Challenge 2012 - Crossmolina Library
Join in the Kids Summer Magic Reading Challenge in Crossmolina Library throughout July and August.
Mon 18th - Mon 25th June, 2012: Exhibition of Quilts - Ballyhaunis Library
As part of Refugee Week 18th – 24th June 2012 a beautiful and extremely colorful Exhibition of Quilts made by Women Asylum Seekers living in Ballyhaunis is on display. The exhibition has been facilitated by Carmel Balfe and Mayo Intercultural Action.
July & August, 2012: Magical Summer at Castlebar Library! - Castlebar Library
Looking for some magic or mystery this summer? Pop into Castlebar Library and pick up a form for the Summer Reading Challenge. We’ve got the books if you’ve got the time!
This summer, throughout the months of July and August, Castlebar Library will again run its popular Summer Reading Challenge. To make things even more interesting – books on the reading list must have a magic or mystery theme.
Every child who participates will receive a special certificate and an invitation to a celebratory evening in the Library.
July & August: Summer Reading Challenge 2012 - Achill Library
The Children’s Summer Reading Challenge runs again this year in Achill Sound Library throughout the months of July and August. Every child must read a total of eight books, each book must be written by a different author.
Every child who completes the challenge will receive a special certificate and an invitation to a celebratory evening in the Library later in the year.
Tues 19th June - Sat 23rd June, 2012: World Refugee Day - Castlebar Library
No one chooses to be a refugee. This World Refugee Day, borrow a refugee book from your local library and show you care!
UNHCR Ireland asks people to take one simple action to show support to refugees, asylum seekers and those in need of international protection here in Ireland and around the world. What we are asking you to do is to read one of the many brilliant refugee books on display in Castlebar Library and then to tell the world about it using Facebook, Twitter, e-mail and even good old fashioned word of mouth. Tell your friends and get them to Do 1 Thing too! A stand of books, written by or about refugees, will be displayed in Castlebar library for one week around World Refugee Day from Tuesday 19th June to Saturday 23rd June, so get reading and spread the word.
28th May, - 9th June, 2012: Dickens at 200 – Exhibition - Castlebar Library
Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of novelist, Charles Dickens, an exhibition is currently taking place in Castlebar Library. All his celebrated novels including various biographies and critical analysis of his work are included.
Wed. 23rd May, 2012: Reading by Eoghan Mac Giolla Bhríde - Castlebar Library
Mayo County Council Arts Office is delighted to announce Eoghan Mac Giolla Bhríde as Mayo County Council Writer in Residence 2012. As part of the residency Eoghan will give a public reading of his work in Castlebar Library. This is a free event and all are welcome to come along on the evening.
May 1st-May 5th, 2012 : From Kells to Kindle Exhibition - Castlebar Library
Anyone with a passing interest in books and book production over the centuries should be fascinated by a special exhibition - 'From Kells to Kindle' which will take place in Castlebar Library. The exhibition is curated by a group of fourth year hons. Heritage students from GMIT, Castlebar, and is built around a selection of antiquarian books from the private collection of Sean Lysaght and his late father, Paddy. The Lysaght collection comprises a selection of rare books from the 16th to the mid-20th century. Visitors will have a chance to learn more about many interesting aspects of the materials and techniques of book production used throughout the centuries
The exhibition will be launched on Tuesday, 5th MAy at 5pm in the Castlebar Library.
Wed. 25th April, 2012: Mayo G.A.A. in pictures, 1965-1968 - Castlebar Library
Talk by photographer Liam Lyons with 340 photographs from his collection covering four years of G.A.A in Mayo. Liam will illustrate his talk with photographs of teams and action from both club and inter-county matches. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.
Every Monday in May: Bealtaine, Mondays in May - Mayo Libraries
Mondays in May – Open mornings in Castlebar and Ballina library. Come in any Monday in May and get a free library tour, hear about our services, learn how to research your local and family history and have a cup of tea and a chat with our staff.
Please book in advance
Month of May: Getting Started, First Steps - Castlebar & Ballina Libraries
‘Getting Started’ ‘First Steps’ A basic computer course compliments of Age Action Ireland called ‘Getting Started’ for people over 55 will be held in Ballina and Castlebar Libraries during May.
The aim of the “Getting Started” programme is to introduce older people to the basics of internet and email. These classes are aimed at people with little or no previous computer experience.
This courses run during May and are free to over 55’s.
Please contact Niamh Hennelly on 091 527831 or 087 1956047 for details or to book a place
During May: Bealtaine, First Steps - Castlebar & Ballina Libraries
‘First Steps’-introduction to computers. Irish Rural Link are running computer courses for senior citizens during the month of May in Ballina and Castlebar Libraries. The course called ‘First Steps’ covers internet training in sending returns on-line, e-mails and on-line shopping.
Dates: 1st, 8th & 15th May in Ballina Library
16th, 23rd & 30th May in Castlebar Library
The courses are free and each session lasts two hours. Please contact Chrissy Casey on 090 6482744 for details or to book a place.
On display until April 26th: Titanic Exhibition - Castlebar Library
The centenary exhibition of the sinking of the Titanic includes many photographs and illustrations of the ship from its building in Belfast to its ending in the Atlantic. The exhibition demonstrates the ships splendour, luxury, comfort but also its vulnerability. It will also focus on the reasons why it sank in the Atlantic on its maiden voyage. A section of the exhibition is devoted to the fate of the fourteen people from Addergoole Parish who boarded the Titanic at Queenstown in Cork. Photographs as well as reports from the local newspapers of the time are used to portray the impact of the tragedy in Mayo.
Mar. 29th 2012: "Knock - And Still They Come" book launch by Mary Kennedy - Castlebar Library
Knock - And Still They Come, the latest book by retired parish priest Fr. Colm Kilcoyne examines the reasons why hundreds of thousands of pilgrims come to Knock every year. This collection of essays and insights also includes the experiences of ordinary pilgrims to Knock as recorded in the shrine visitors' book, and an interview conducted with the late parish priest and Rector of Knock Shrine, Fr. Joe Quinn, shortly before his untimely death.The book will be launched in Castlebar Library by RTÉ Nationwide presenter Mary Kennedy.
Fri Mar 17th & Mon. Mar 19th, 2012: Lá Fhéile Pádraig - Library closed - Mayo County Library
Mayo County Library will be closed for St. Patrick's Day, Friday Mar 17th & Mon Mar 19th 2012. Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig!
Fri. 9th March 2012: The Flame and the Candle' book launch in Castlebar Library - Castlebar Library
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD will launch The Flame and the Candle - War in Mayo 1919 - 1924 by Dominic Price.
The myth that little or nothing happened in Mayo during Ireland’s fight for Independence will be dispelled forever with the launch of this major new work on the period. The Flame and the Candle is the story of the Mayo men and women who were active during the troubled period of the War of Independence and the Civil War, a story largely untold.
The author, Dominic Price, is a teacher of history who grew up in Rathfarnham, close to Scoil Eanna. He often visited his grandparents who lived near Kilmainham Jail which sparked his interest in Irish history of this period. Click on event title to read more...
5-17 March: Seachtain na Gaeilge in Mayo Libraries - Mayo Libraries
Seachtain na Gaeilge is a festival which celebrates the Irish language and culture. It doesn't matter if you are a fluent speaker or just beginning to learn the language, give it a go!
Feb., 25th 2012: Launch of 'El Nino' in Ballinrobe Library - Ballinrobe Library
El Niño is the debut crime novel from Ballinrobe writer – Mick Donnellan. Having had an immensely successsful year in the theatre for 2011, Donnellan’s artistic merits are now also being recognised in the fiction world. His most popular plays to date – Sunday Morning Coming Down, Shortcut to Halleljuah and Gun Metal Grey – have sold out across the country, inspiring excellent reviews and standing ovations from sell-out crowds.
Journalist Liam Horan will speak at the event and it will be followed by a reading from Mick and then a book signing.
27th Jan., 2012: New Library in Foxford Opens - Foxford, Co. Mayo
The new library in foxford is located on the corner of Lower Main Street and comprises a children's and adult lending area, a reference library, a local history section and a computer learning area. It includes a seating area for studying, research and homework and also an area for children's activities such as story hours and workshops.
The library has a stock of over 10,000 books with the local history section containing books, journals, maps and tapes of every aspect of Foxford's rich heritage. Other services include DVDs, audio books, music CDs, language courses, local newspapers and 3 computers providing free Internet access for library members.
Fri. 23rd Dec., 2011: Mayo Male Voice Choir Castlebar - Castlebar Library
Mayo Male Voice Choir will perform a festive and seasonal selection of song in Castlebar in aid of the Irish Wheelchair Association. All are welcome at this wonderful Christimas event!
Thurs 8th Dec., 2011: Charity CD launch - Castlebar Library
Charity CD launch in Castlebar Library by Tommy Marren featuring Castlebar College of Further Education (CCFE) music students with their hit song 'Coming Home'! All Welcome!
Nov 11th - Nov 13th, 2011: Rolling Sun Book Festival - Westport
After a highly successful festival in 2010, the Rolling Sun Book Festival line-up for 2011 includes journalist, adventurer & documentary maker Manchán Mangan, well-known cook Neven Maguire, plus a celebration of Yeats poetry and song by Nóirín Ní Riain and Mark Patrick Hederman. The festival presents many more interesting and entertaining events - check out The Rolling Sun Book Festival Programme 2011 for a full list of events
Oct 29th - Nov 5th 2011: Achill Storytelling Festival - Achill Library
A festival of storytelling events, drama workshops and activities including a 'Children's Story Writing Competition" open to children of all ages. Can you write a story 500 - 1000 words long beginning with "I had just crossed the bridge at Achill Sound when...." Check out Achill Storytelling Programme 2011 for full details.
Fri Nov 4th: Launch of Tyrone's Struggle for Irish Freedom by Gerard Magee - Castlebar Library
Tyrone’s Struggle for Irish Freedom is a monumental new book that documents the troubles in that county in full-colour. The author Gerard Magee, was a republican prisoner between 1988 and 1998, when he became a regular contributor from Long Kesh to the prison magazine An Glór Gafa/The Captive Voice. This book chronologically documents the republican armed struggle (1970 to 1994) when there were approximately 1,500 IRA operations carried out within and around County Tyrone.
Fri 21st Oct., 2011: Buen Camino, a talk by author Peter Murtagh - Louisburgh Library
'A Night To Remember' - Author and journalist Mr Peter Murtagh whose book 'Buen Camino' was published earlier this year will talk and show slides about his book. 'Buen Camino' which is co-written with Peter's daughter Natasha is the story of their journey from Croagh Patrick to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Admission is Free, refreshments will be served and everyone is welcome to what is expected to be a very enlightening and enjoyable evening.
Tues. 4th Oct, 2011: 'The Adventures of Pete' to be launched - Castlebar Library
A new childrens book ‘The Adventures of Pete’ will take place in Castlebar Library in October. The author of this book is a retired primary school teacher Helena McDonagh from Charlestown, Co Mayo. Helena over her career has written many stories for young children. She finally committed to print ‘The Adventures of Pete’ a story born from watching birds in her back garden. The book is available in most book shops within the county.It is aimed at children in the four to seven age bracket.
Sept & Oct 2011: Inspired by the Secret Garden - Achill Library
Following a very successful showing in 'The Secret Garden' on Achill Island, a collection of embroideries by Wendy Kelly entitled “Inspired by the Secret Garden” is now on display in the library at Achill Sound. The embroideries are interpretations of plants and flowers in the garden. A wide variety of materials and techniques have been employed by the artist to create unique and interesting pieces.
Thurs., 6th Oct. 2011: Open Mic Poetry session for All-Ireland Poetry Day - Ballina Library
Calling all poets to Ballina Library to celebrate All-Ireland Poetry Day with an Open Mic Poetry session. These sessions are a metaphor for freedom, an informal and extremely enjoyable evening of poetry. They're a place where your art can be presented to the public at large and all we ask is that poets come along on the night, read from their own original work and enjoy the work of others. The public are more than welcome too!
Thurs., 6th Oct. 2011: Poetry Snack workshops on All-Ireland Poetry Day - Castlebar Library
Poetry Snack workshops offer writers an opportunity to bring along a poem-in-progress for feedback. Martin Dyar & Susan Millar DuMars will be at Castlebar Library from 3pm until 6pm to offer one to one responses to individual writers about their poems and to engage with whatever other queries they might have.
Fri., 23th Sept. 2011: International Folktales from around the World for Culture Night - Ballina Library
Storytelling is the oldest of the human arts and most likely began to pass the night around the fire. While we won't have the fire as part of Culture Night 2011, Ballina Library invites children to an afternoon of folk tales from around the world. Drop in and be entertained, hear about a different culture or just learn a new story
Runs until 30th Sept. 2011: The Royal Irish Constabulary: a Documentary Exhibition - Castlebar Library
Castlebar Library will mark Heritage Week August 20th to 28th with a documentary exhibition on the Royal Irish Constabulary. The R.I.C. was the crown police force in Ireland from the early 19th Century up to 1922. The exhibition will focus on the activities of the force in the west of Ireland and will include original newspaper reports and illustrations, photographs and notes from police manuals of the time. It will also feature copies of original intelligence reports from County Mayo to Dublin Castle during the War of Independence.
20th - 28th August 2011: Fr. Browne Photographic Exhibition in Ballina Library - Ballina Library
Ballina Library is celebrating National Heritage Week 2011 with an exhibition of photographs from the Father Browne Collection, many of which have never been exhibited before.
Fr. Francis Browne (1880-1960), a member of the Jesuit Order journeyed throughoutIrelandin the 1930's capturing stunning images of the people and landscape of that time. He is one ofIreland's most important documentary photographers amassing some 42,000 images during his lifetime.
19th July to 18th August 2011: Happy Birthday Mr Bob!! - Castlebar Library
Bob Dylan, music icon, popular songwriter, poet, celebrated his seventieth birthday on Tuesday 24th May. To commemorate this occasion Castlebar Library is delighted to host an exhibition of Bob Dylan memorabilia entitled 'Happy Birhday Mr. Bob!'. This collection has been generously loaned to the library by Liamy McNally.
July & August 2011: Summer Reading Challenge - Achill Library
The Children’s Summer Reading Challenge runs again this year in Achill Sound Library throughout the months of July and August. Each child must read 4 books by a male author and 4 books by a female author, 8 books in total, and at the end of the challenge answer a question on one of the authors. Children under eight who participate can answer the question by drawing a picture. Everyone who completes the Challenge will be awarded a special certificate and will be invited to a celebratory evening in Achill Sound Library later in the year.
For all details visit the library or contact Pauline in the library
Wed., 6th July, 2011: Mayo Volunteer Centre in Achill Library - Achill Sound Library
Mayo Volunteer Centre provides guidance and support for anyone wishing to volunteer and to any not-for-profit organisation that involves volunteers in their work. If you would like to volunteer or are a volunteer involving organisation that would like access to more volunteers and to find out about Volunteer Management Training, Mayo Volunteer Centre will be in Achill Sound library on Wednesday 6th July, 2011 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. .
July 2011: Summer Reading Programme - Castlebar Library
It’s that time of year again – children are thinking longingly of their summer holidays and we at Castlebar Library are putting together our latest Summer Reading programme.This year we are running a Summer Reading programme for the month of July.
Thurs. 9th June, 2011: One Belmullet, One Book - Áras inis Gluaire, Belmullet
'One Belmullet, One Book 2011' is a new project in Erris, Co. Mayo which will get people in the community reading and talking about books. The whole idea behind it is to encourage people in the same area to read the same book, at the same time, and have fun while they do it! It's an opportunity for they whole community to get involved in reading for pleasure. The book in question is being kept top secret until the launch to make it more fun for people!!
14th June, 2011: Book launch of L'Auberge by Julia Stagg - Castlebar Library
Quelle horreur! The venerable Auberge des Deux Vallées has fallen into the hands of an English couple and that spells the end of gastronomic civilisation for the small commune of Fogas in the French Pyrenees.
The mayor is particularly incensed: he had intended his brother-in-law to take over. He determines to eject les rosbifs by any means possible, and before they have had the chance to serve their first pastis, Paul and Lorna are up to their eyes in French bureaucracy.
Chocolat meets Clochemerle in this heart-warming tale set in rural France.
Select the event title link above to read more.....
Thursday 28th April : Ceol agus Craic le Oisín Mac Diarmada - Claremorris Library
Oisín Mac Diarmada appears in Claremorris Library for an evening of ceol agus craic!
March, 2011: March Madness in Mayo Libraries - Mayo County Libraries
Mayo libraries will be busy places throughout the month of March. Library Ireland Week, Seachtain na Gaeilge and Bord Gáis Energy’s Rediscover Your Local Library campaign all run throughout the month meaning that Mayo Libraries will have something for everyone in March. And best of all practically all events are FREE!!!!
Read our full programme of events for Mayo Libraries March Madness!!
15th March 2011.: Bord Gáis Energy Rediscover Your Local Library presents Brent Pope at the Library. - Ballina Library
Brent Pope visits Ballina Library as part of Bord Gáis Energy Rediscover Your Local Library campaign.
5ú - 17ú Márta, 2011: Seachtain Na Gaeilge 2011 - Mayo County Libraries
Check out Mayo Libraries Seachtain Na Gaeilge 2011 programme of events. Mar shampla is féidir leat faigh amach cén chaoi liathróidí a dhéanamh le balúin, plúr agus málaí plaisteacha...agus ansin faigh amach cén chaoi juggling a dhéanamh leo (for example you can find out how to make juggling balls with balloons, flour and plastic bags...and then learn how to juggle them)
Dé Céadaoin 9ú Márta, 2011: Caint as Bheartas Teanga - CANCELLED - Leabharlann Chaisleán an Bharraigh
Tá taighde dochtúireachta déanta ag Laoise Ní Dhúda BA, MA (Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh) ar fheidhmiú an bheartais teanga i gceantar Gaeltachta trí mheán na heitneagrafaíochta. Sa chaint seo tabharfar léargas eimpíreach agus coincheapúil ar mhúnla Spolsky i leith an bheartais teanga (.i. cleachtas teanga, creideamh teanga, bainistíocht teanga) sa Bhreacbhaile.
CANCELLED
Tuesday, 8th March 2011.: Dyslexia Association Of Ireland & Ballina Library host an Evening with Don Mullan - Ballina Library
North Mayo Branch of the Dyslexia Association of Ireland and Ballina Library will co-host an evening with Don Mullan, author & award winning humanitarian who was diagnosed with dyslexia in 1993.
Don will conduct a workshop for children with dyslexia from 6pm to 6.30pm and from 6.30pm -8pm will speak in an open session to the public about his life and his own very personal but courageous tale of how dyslexia effected him.
Thursday March 3rd in Castlebar, Thursday 31st March in Ballina.: Feeling Stressed? Coping in these difficult times with Kate Connon - Castlebar Library & Ballina Library
Feeling stressed? Just remember, there IS light at the end of the road during these challenging days.
Please take this survey: Bord Gáis Energy READISCOVER Your Local Library Survey - All libraries
As part of their work around the Bord Gáis Energy READISCOVER Your Local Library initiative, Bord Gáis Energy is conducting some research into libraries and what consumers understand about the services offered by libraries. The survey will give an indication of what people think.
Bord Gais Energy Readiscover Your Local Library Survey
The survey results will be very helpful to Bord Gáis Energy as they seek to promote the READISCOVER campaign.
Wednesday March 2nd: 'If maps could speak' with Richard Kirwan - Castlebar Library
'If maps could speak' is an engaging combination of memoir, history and stories about people and places.
Feb. 8th - Feb. 25th: Monster Book Sale - Castlebar Library
Mayo County Library is currently holding a major book sale in Castlebar Library. Hundreds of books will be on sale ranging from popular paperbacks for as little as one euro to reference books and textbooks. This sale of old and excess stock provides a unique opportunity to pick up off-beat books or books or rarely seen titles at very cheap prices. Most subjects are covered – gardening, cookery, hobbies, history, travel, science and biography. Come along and pick up a bargain and all monies raised will go to charity.
Feb. 1st - 16th 2011: The Legend of the Ruhr - European Capital of Culture 2010 "Essen for the Ruhr" - Castlebar Library
“Essen for the Ruhr” has been designated the European Capital of Culture in 2010. In this exhibition, comprising more than 20 of Manfred Vollmer’s photographs, you will get to know a little about the Ruhr Metropolis. This is an urbane cityscape marked by its history in the mining and steel industries. It is an area that continuously reinvents itself. It is unfinished, inspiring and surprising. It is a metropolis in the making. The European Capital of Culture RUHR.2010 is the engine powering this development.
The Legend of the Ruhr – European Capital of Culture 2010 “Essen for the Ruhr” will be launched in CastlebarLibrary on Tuesday 1st February at 6:00 pm and will run until February 14th.All are welcome.
10th to 29th January 2011: Fighting for Dignity: Jewish Resistance in Krakow. - Castlebar Library
This exhibition deals with the lives of Jewish individuals in Krakow from 1939 until the liberation of Krakow by the allied forces in 1945 .
4th, 8th & 11th Dec., 2010: "A Christmas Carol" performed by Stephen Doyle - Ballina Library
Stephen Doyle performs his one man show ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. This show is suitable for 7yr-olds and upwards and children must be accompanied by an adult
Dec. 3rd - Dec. 23rd 2010: An Exhibition of Christmas Past - Ballina Library
Ballina Public Library & The Jackie Clarke Collection present An Exhibition of Christmas Past in the 1st Floor Exhibition Room in Ballina Library. The exhibition is open during library hours and admission is free
Wed. 8th Dec., 2010: Launch of 'Healing Visions: First Aid for the Soul' by Kate Connon - Castlebar Library
Due to weather difficulties this event has been cancelled. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Kate Connon will read from her book in Castlebar library on the night the 8th Dec 2010. A wine and cheese reception will take place at 7.30pm folowed by the launch at 8:00. Music on the evening will be by Joanne Keegan.
All royalties from book sales on the night will go to Mayo Woman’s Support Services, Castlebar.
Mon. 15th Nov., 2010: Senator David Norris speaks in Mayo Libraries - Castlebar Library
Senator, human rights campaigner and academic, David Norris is one of the most colourful characters in Irish public life. He is a former university lecturer and longtime member of Seanad Éireann. He is the founder of the Campaign for Homosexual Law Reform and is a prominent member of the Church of Ireland. Norris represents the University of Dublin constituency in the Seanad as an Independent. He was first elected to the Seanad in 1987 and has been re-elected at each election since.
23rd November 2010: Launch of Unravelling the Spiral: The life and work of Fred Conlon (1943 - 2005) by Jack Harte - Castlebar Library
Unravelling the Spiral, a book on the life and work of the sculptor, Fred Conlon, will be of special interest in Mayo. Conlon has three major public sculptures in the county - in Castlebar, Westport, and Kiltimagh. The book will receive a special Mayo launch in Castlebar Library and all are welcome.
Thursday 11th November 2010: Fantastic Physics - Castlebar Library
Christine Campbell from Anyone4Science will present her Science Roadshow lecture on Fantastic Physics.
Wed., 10th Nov., 2010: Author Don Mullan launches specialized book collection for children with reading difficulties - Castlebar Library
Fresh from his recent interviews on RTE and Newstalk, author and award winning humanitarian Don Mullan, will be in Castlebar Library to launch a new specialized book collection for children with reading difficulties. These new specialized resources have been sponsored by Children's Book Ireland. Don will speak of his own very personal but courageous tale of overcoming dyslexia.
Don, born in Derry in 1956 was not diagnosed with dyslexia until 1993. He tells a harrowing tale of his school days but also a story of inspiration and courage as he recounts how, despite his reading and writing difficulties, he pursued a career as a writer and investigative journalist.
Sat. 13th Nov., 2010: Illustrated talk by internationally renowned artist P.J. Lynch - Westport Library
Internationally renowned illustrator and artist P. J. Lynch will deliver an illustrated talk on his work in Westport library on Saturday next November 13th at 2.00pm. The event which is part of the Rolling Sun Festival, is a once-off opportunity to meet this award winning artist.
Sept. 30th - Oct. 31st 2010: Children's Book Festival 2010 - Mayo Libraries
Children’s Book Festival is one of Ireland’s biggest arts festivals, with hundreds of free events celebrating children’s book happenings nationwide in bookshops, libraries, schools, community and arts centres.
Mayo County Library is again running a full and fun-packed Festival, with local events including competitions, games and activities. Please select Children's Book Festival Event Guide 2010 (requires Acrobat Reader - opens new window) for full event details.
Fri. 29th Oct., 2010: 'Kill your Television' Poetry Reading by Emer Davis - Achill Library
Emer Davis currently lives in Drogheda and works as a full time civil servant in Dublin. This is her first collection of poems to be published. Several of her poems have been published including Keel in Boyne Berries and Coming Home in Revival. Kill Your Television explores love, passion, innocence, memories, family history, sorrow, loss and betrayal in a changing landscape from the rugged beauty of Achill to the urban decay of London and Dublin with vivid descriptions capturing snatches of human life. Full of sensuous imagery we catch a glimpse, a moment, a lingering thought unfolding on the pages.
Thurs. 30th September, 2010: Darren Shan visits Mayo County Library - Castlebar Library
Darren Shan begins his tour in Castlebar Library to launch his new title "Birth of a Killer", the first in the new Saga of Larten Crepsley. This is the first in a 4 book series about Mr. Crepsley's life before he meets Darren Shan at the Cirque du Freak.
7th October 2010.:
All-Ireland Poetry Day 2010
Lá Filíochta Naisiúnta 2010 - Castlebar Library
Mayo County Arts Office and Mayo County Library present Anne Le Marquand Hartigan and John F. Deane reading from their work in celebration of All-Ireland Poetry Day 2010.
July and August 2010: Summer Reading Challenge - Castlebar Library
We have lift off! Castlebar Library is getting ready to launch children into orbit for an intergalactical adventure that will keep them reading throughout the school summer holidays....with the 2010 Summer Reading Challenge.
Wednesday, 9th June 2010. : Grow it Yourself Ireland Follow-up Evening - Ballina Library
Interested in growing your own food? Don't know where to start? Come along on Wednesday evening to the follow-up meeting of the GIY group for Ballina and find out how the group can help you help yourself!
14 June 2010 to 2 July 2010: Through a Swedish Lens: images of early twentieth-century Irish Life - Castlebar Library
"Through a Swedish Lens : images of early twenthieth-century Irish life" is a photographic exhibition from the National Folklore Collection at University College Dublin.
Feb 1st - Feb 28th, 2010: Darwin, Praeger and the Clare Island Surveys - Castlebar Library
Celebrating the 200th anniversary of Darwin’s birth, the 150th anniversary of the publication of ‘The Origin of the Species’ and the 100th anniversary of the first Clare Island Survey, the Royal Irish Academy presents an exhibition which aims to explore the work of Irish naturalists both in Ireland and abroad and the influence of Darwin on those whose collections are displayed here. The exhibition is supplemented by original material from Castlebar Library’s local studies collection and will run in the library during February.
Wednesday 23rd December 2009: Christmas Carols with the Mayo Male Voice Choir - Castlebar Library
The Mayo Male Voice Choir present a medley of carols to brighten up your day!
Nov 3rd, Nov 4th and Nov5th : eLearning at the Library Information Evening - Castlebar, Ballina and Swinford Libraries
Online Learning in Mayo Libraries:
Mayo County Library is delighted to launch a joint project with FÁS to offer learning opportunities for adults in three libraries: Castlebar, Ballina and Swinford. The project provides a range of online courses, which can be accessed in the library or from home, supported by a facilitator who will be available in the participating libraries. The courses will help people gain new computer skills and build on existing skills.
Fri Sept 18th, 2009: Launch of new book by Michael Murphy "At Five in the Afternoon" - Castlebar Library
Enda Kenny, TD will launch the first book written by Michael Murphy "At Five in the Afternoon". Michael Murphy is a Psychoanalyst and Broadcaster, well known as one of Ireland's best loved newscasters on RTE. This unique memoir is about experiencing cancer, but it is also about so much more. It is about masculinity, family, women, life, love and loss. It is about the very essence of the human condition.
Wednesday 23rd September to Wednesday 30th September 2009: Lost and Found: an exhibition of visual art - Castlebar Library
Lost and Found is an exhibition of visual art by recent graduates of the Art and Design Degree course GMIT Castlebar.
July and August: Be Adventurous @ the Library this Summer - Ballyhaunis Library
Be adventurous @ Ballyhaunis Library this Summer. Join the Ballyhaunis Library Summer Reading Club and take part in a summer filled with adventure.
24th June 2009: Poetry Reading - Achill Sound Library
Poetry reading with Mark Chaddock in Achill Library.
19th June 2009. : Poet Mark Chaddock reads from his newly published poetry collection - Ballina Library
Achill based poet Mark Chaddock will give a reading from his newly published collection called 'The Ordinary Miracle'
3rd to 19th June 2009.: Mayo Photographic Club Exhibition - Castlebar Library
The Mayo Photographic Club exhibition features a rich tapestry of photographs with a diverse range of styles including creative, documentary, portraiture, wildlife, still life and landscapes.
July to August 2009.: Summer Reading Challenge 2009 - Castlebar Library
This summer, throughout the months of July and August, Castlebar Library will again run its popular Summer Reading Challenge.
Thurs 11th June, 2009: Reading with author Eilish Ní Dhuibhne - Castlebar Library
Mayo County Council Arts Office are delighted to announce Éilís Ní Dhuibhne as Force 12 2009 Writer in Residence. As part of her residency, Eilish will give a reading and discuss many aspects of both her short story collections and novels in Castlebar Library.
May, 2009: Free Computer Classes for the Older Person - Ballina, Castlebar, Claremorris & Charlestown Libraries
These classes are aimed at those with little or no experience of using computers or the Internet. The classes are free but booking is essential.
Contact Ballina Library, Castlebar Library, Claremorris Library and Charlestown Library for full details
Monday 6th April 2009.: Castlebar Healthy Heart Day - Castlebar Library
Don't miss Castlebar Healthy Heart Day! Heart Smart is a FREE cardiovascular check up taking place in Castlebar Library which is available to everyone over 40 years who have not attended their GP in the last year for a cholesterol check.
26th February - 18th March 2009. : 2009 Trocaire Lenten Photography Exhibition - Ballina Library
An exhibition of 22 photographs by Trocaire on the theme of people having to leave their homes because of war.
February 2009: BT Young Scientist Entrants 2009 - Castlebar Library
An exhibition of the BT Young Scientist Entrants for 2009 from St. Joseph's Secondary School Castlebar and St. Gerald’s Secondary School Castlebar is on display in Castlebar Library. The exhibition includes the entry by Laura Breslin 'Why are certain Leaving Certificate subjects so popular?' This entry won the Irish Science Teacher’s Association award and won the category- Senior Individual Social and Behavioural Sciences.
4th February 2009. : A Presentation on Bees and Bee-keeping by Henry Horkan - Ballina Library
As part of the Aontas Adult Learning Festival 2009, Ballina Library and The Mayo North Garden & Flower Club will host a presentation on Bee and Bee-keeping by Henry Horkan.
15th April to 29th April 2009.: Traces: an Exhibition of Visual Art - Castlebar Library
Traces is an exhibition of visual art by the Spectrum Art Group.
July and August 2009: Summer Reading Challenge - Crossmolina Library
Join in the Summer Reading Challenge this July and August at Crossmolina Library
17th September to 25th September 2010:
Western Sahara:footsteps towards freedom
- Castlebar Library
Western Sahara: footsteps towards freedom is an exhibition of photography, media and art installation which was created by Bryan Duffy and Emily McFarland.
The official launch will take place on Friday 17th September at 7.30pm with a food and wine reception. The Exhibition will be launched by Councillor Thérèse Ruane.