Ireland Reads: Dublin Book Club Shares Benefits of Reading & Community

‘Addicted to this library’: Dublin Book Club Highlights the Joys of Reading

As Ireland marks ‘Ireland Reads’ day, a book club in Tallaght Library, Dublin, is demonstrating the powerful connection people have with reading and the community spaces that foster it. The D24 Reads club, featured in reporting by RTE.ie, has seen significant growth in membership over the past two years, with members embracing the challenge of reading and connecting with fellow book lovers.

The D24 Reads Challenge and Growing Membership

Established in 2024, D24 Reads initially attracted 250 members. By last year, that number had swelled to over 400, according to senior librarian Michelle Leamy. The club’s current aim is to continue this upward trend with a launch event coinciding with ‘Ireland Reads’ day on Saturday, February 28th. Members have even set themselves a challenge – reading 24 books over the course of a year – to provide focus and a sense of accomplishment.

More Than Just Books: The Social and Wellbeing Benefits

The benefits of reading extend far beyond simple entertainment, as highlighted by organizers of the ‘Ireland Reads’ campaign. Members of D24 Reads echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact reading has on their wellbeing. Seamus Whelan, a club member, described reading as a form of “mindfulness,” noting how “time flies” when immersed in a decent book. This aligns with broader discussions around the mental health benefits of disconnecting and engaging with literature.

A Community Hub and Safe Space

For many, the library serves as more than just a repository of books; it’s a vital community hub. Mithun Pillai, a recent immigrant to Ireland from India, shared how Tallaght Library has become a “safe place” for him. He explained that the campaign has encouraged him to read “as much” as he can, having already completed 50 to 55 books in the last two years as a member of the club. This underscores the library’s role in providing a sense of belonging and support for newcomers.

The Power of Shared Reading Experiences

The social aspect of the book club is a key draw for many participants. Sheila McAdam highlighted the value of conversations sparked by the books they read and the helpful advice provided by the librarians. The club offers a tangible reward for completing a book – a sticker on a bookmark – adding a playful element to the reading experience. This echoes a broader trend of book clubs fostering connection and shared intellectual exploration.

A Reminder of Connection During Isolation

The importance of libraries and reading was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sheila McAdam recalled how she and her neighbors exchanged books over the wall, maintaining a connection during a time of isolation. This simple act demonstrates the power of books to bridge divides and foster community, even under challenging circumstances. She emphasized that reading should be a “fun positive experience,” encouraging people to abandon books they don’t enjoy and explore new genres.

Tallaght Library: A Multifaceted Community Resource

Tallaght Library offers a wide range of facilities beyond its book collection, including a busy outreach program, study rooms, and even recreational amenities like an oversized chess set and pool table. Bob and Maureen McNamara, keen supporters of the library, described it as “magnificent,” emphasizing the value of having such a resource available to the community. Maureen McNamara playfully admitted to sometimes needing a “search party” to locate her, as she’s “addicted to this library.”

Ireland Reads is supported by Healthy Ireland and a network of organizations dedicated to promoting reading, literacy, and the arts, including the National Adult Literacy Agency.