Inspiring Readers is a large scale reader development programme being managed by the Western Education & Library Board on behalf of WELB and Donegal County Council libraries. The project is cross border (N. Ireland and the Republic of Ireland) and aims to encourage people to use books creatively to tackle issues like conflict resolution and cultural identity. It is a community reading project –a ‘one book’ project throughout the North West in the period March to June 2006.
A panel of library staff with support from the Community Relations Council have chosen Theresa Breslin’s ‘Divided City’. (Doubleday, 0385607679)
The book was chosen because it addresses sectarianism, is accessible to a wide age range and reading ability, and it was felt that the football theme will engage more readers.
The specific aims and objectives of the project are
Aim
To bring communities together to discuss issues around peace and reconciliation by encouraging them to read the same book at the same time.
Objectives
- To get 1,000 people (from both communities and both sides of the border) reading the book in a four-month period.
- To encourage debate about the book and issues of Peace and Reconciliation through agreed activities and local media coverage.
- To raise the profile of the library services
Events
There are a number of events in libraries, discussing the book and other books’ approaches to dealing with conflict situations.
April-June 2006
Other events to include a further author visit week beginning 15th May to coincide with paperback launch of the book.
Other marketing activities
In addition to providing 200 copies of the book for libraries, the project would also aim to engage with local bookshops, other business and schools to encourage them to buy copies.
We will be seeking endorsements of the book from prominent local personalities including politicians and sportspeople.
We would also anticipate using the book with all of the local reading groups.
For further information contact:
Frances Crampsie
Project Officer
County Library, Rosemount Lane Letterkenny
e-mail frances.crampsie@donegalcoco.ie
tel 074 91 94240