Irish public libraries, publishers and writers have agreed a deal to facilitate online storytime sessions for young people while libraries and schools remain closed to the public during the Covid-19 pandemic.

This initiative will provide another valuable resource for families alongside the online services already provided by libraries such as eBooks, eAudiobooks, and access to online learning resources on Askaboutireland.ie and Enfo.ie.

‘Spring into Storytime’ is the name of libraries’ annual celebration of families reading together. This year we want to highlight the incredible work of Irish authors, inviting everyone to #LoveIrishWriting. Library buildings may be closed, but in partnership with Irish writers and publishers, we encourage you to celebrate great Irish writing with our librarians online instead of in your local branch. 

Storytime in the library is a special shared time for families and, thanks to the generosity of Irish publishers and writers, this deal will allow librarians to keep storytime alive online for our youngest members. Library storytimes are a fun way for children to enjoy stories, especially those who may not have access to books in the home or do not have access to new books at this time.

Irish librarians, writers and publishers are committed to inspiring a love of stories now more than ever and this partnership means children can continue to enjoy the best in Irish children’s books.