BOOKVILLE SCHOOLS PROGRAMME
Bookings open at 9am on 19th September
Pre-booking is essential
Please note that while we do our best to accommodate everyone, places are limited
Bookings open at 9am on 19th September
Pre-booking is essential
Please note that while we do our best to accommodate everyone, places are limited
Welcome to our 2023 Bookville Programme of events for schools!
We are delighted to bring you an exciting free programme of in-person and virtual workshops by some of the best contemporary children's authors and illustrators from Ireland and the UK.
To book in-person workshops, contact your partner library. See contact page for library details.
Please note: school groups should ONLY book for in-person events at their partner library. If you are not sure which library your school is partnered with, please contact Library Headquarters on
056 779 4160 info@kilkennylibrary.ie .
All schools can book for virtual workshops.
Bookings for virtual workshops open at 9am on 19th September & close on 5th October at 5pm.
Pre-booking is essential.
To book virtual workshops contact Aideen McDoanld at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie.
Make sure you call in to our Sandwich Story exhibition in the Kilkenny County Council exhibition space on John St. See Exhibition page for details.
We are delighted to bring you an exciting free programme of in-person and virtual workshops by some of the best contemporary children's authors and illustrators from Ireland and the UK.
To book in-person workshops, contact your partner library. See contact page for library details.
Please note: school groups should ONLY book for in-person events at their partner library. If you are not sure which library your school is partnered with, please contact Library Headquarters on
056 779 4160 info@kilkennylibrary.ie .
All schools can book for virtual workshops.
Bookings for virtual workshops open at 9am on 19th September & close on 5th October at 5pm.
Pre-booking is essential.
To book virtual workshops contact Aideen McDoanld at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie.
Make sure you call in to our Sandwich Story exhibition in the Kilkenny County Council exhibition space on John St. See Exhibition page for details.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS via ZOOM
All schools can book for virtual workshops.
Bookings for virtual workshops open at 9am on 19th September & close on 5th October at 5pm.
Pre-booking is essential
To book virtual workshops contact Aideen McDonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie.
All schools can book for virtual workshops.
Bookings for virtual workshops open at 9am on 19th September & close on 5th October at 5pm.
Pre-booking is essential
To book virtual workshops contact Aideen McDonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie.
Virtual workshops summary (detailed descriptions below):
THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER, 12 noon to 1pm
Creative Writing with Judi Curtin. 3rd to 6th class.
FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Escape Room with Christopher Edge. 2nd to 6th class.
MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Bi-lingual Poetry with Áine Ní Ghlinn. 4th to 6th class.
TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Funny Stories with Helen Rutter. 2nd to 6th class.
WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Storytelling & Drawing with Chris Haughton. Junior & Senior Infants
THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER, 12 noon to 1pm
Creative Writing with Judi Curtin. 3rd to 6th class.
FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Escape Room with Christopher Edge. 2nd to 6th class.
MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Bi-lingual Poetry with Áine Ní Ghlinn. 4th to 6th class.
TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Funny Stories with Helen Rutter. 2nd to 6th class.
WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER, 10am to 11am
Storytelling & Drawing with Chris Haughton. Junior & Senior Infants
THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Creative writing with JUDI CURTIN
Creative writing with JUDI CURTIN
Judi Curtin
Featuring her book Lily at Lissadell, Judi Curtin will talk about why she chose to write a series of historical novels for children, and where she got the inspiration for Lily and her friends. She will talk about the influence of her grandmothers, and what their lives were like. She will talk about research, and the importance of having fun while writing. Her talk will be illustrated with a slideshow.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Date: Thursday 12th October
Time: 12 noon to 1pm
Ages: 3rd to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie.
Date: Thursday 12th October
Time: 12 noon to 1pm
Ages: 3rd to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie.
Judi Curtin is one of Ireland’s favourite children’s writers. She is the best-selling author of the Alice and Megan and Eva series, Time After Time, Stand By Me, You’ve Got A Friend and the Lily at Lissadell series. Stand By Me was named Children’s Book of the Year (Senior) at the Irish Book Awards. Her books have been published in German, Portuguese, Spanish, Finnish, Swedish, Norwegian, Russian, Serbian, Welsh, Czech and Turkish, and in Australia and New Zealand. Judi grew up in Cork and now lives in Limerick, where she is married with three children.
FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Escape room with CHRISTOPHER EDGE
Escape room with CHRISTOPHER EDGE
Christopher Edge
Welcome to The Escape – the ultimate Escape Room with puzzles and challenges to beat before time runs out. But wait, this is no ordinary game… Do you dare to play? Join author Christopher Edge on a heart-racing journey as he brings The Escape to life and explore the imaginative, empowering world of his mind-bendingly Christopher brilliant novel, Escape Room. Can you help find the Answer and save the world?
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP VIA ZOOM
Date: Friday 13th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Age Group: 2nd to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Date: Friday 13th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Age Group: 2nd to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Christopher Edge is an award-winning children's author whose books have been translated into more than twenty languages. His novel The Infinite Lives of Maisie Day won the STEAM Children's Book Prize and his last four novels were all nominated for the prestigious CILIP Carnegie Medal. Before becoming a writer, he worked as an English teacher, editor and publisher - any job that let him keep a book close to hand - and he now lives in Gloucestershire with his wife and family, close to his local library.
MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Bi- lingual poetry with AÍNE NÍ GHLINN
Bi- lingual poetry with AÍNE NÍ GHLINN
Áine Ní Ghlinn
Ceardlann dátheangach ar líne (ar Zoom) leis an údar do pháistí agus iar-Laureate na nÓg, Áine Ní Ghlinn: Déanfaidh Áine dánta spraíúla dá cuid féin a léamh agus cabhróidh sí leis na páistí dánta dá gcuid féin a scríobh.
Bi-lingual Zoom workshop with poet, children’s author and former Laureate na nÓg, Áine Ní Ghlinn. Áine will begin by reading some fun poems for the children and she will then guide and encourage them to write their own poems.
Bi-lingual Zoom workshop with poet, children’s author and former Laureate na nÓg, Áine Ní Ghlinn. Áine will begin by reading some fun poems for the children and she will then guide and encourage them to write their own poems.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP VIA ZOOM
Date: Monday 16th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Age Group: 4th to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Date: Monday 16th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Age Group: 4th to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Áine Ní Ghlinn is a bilingual Irish journalist, poet, playwright and children's writer. She is the former Laureate na nÓg, 2020—2023, the first to write exclusively in Irish.
TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Funny stories with HELEN RUTTER
Funny stories with HELEN RUTTER
Helen Rutter
In this interactive creative session bestselling author Helen Rutter will introduce to her award-winning debut The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh. In this book we meet Billy Plimpton, a young aspiring comedian navigating the world of comedy and school with a stammer. With Helen’s help you will collectively design a whole range of brilliant funny stories.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Date: Tuesday 17th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Ages: 2nd to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Date: Tuesday 17th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Ages: 2nd to 6th class
To book contact Aideen Mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
The Boy Who Made Everyone Laugh is Helen Rutter's first novel. She lives just outside Sheffield and has worked as an actress for many years. The idea for this story came from her son, Lenny, who has a stammer: she wanted to write the book that he would love to read, starring a child like him. She hopes that children will be able to relate to feeling unheard, different from the rest and unable to find their voice.
WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Storytelling & Drawing with CHRIS HAUGHTON
Storytelling & Drawing with CHRIS HAUGHTON
Chris Haughton
Join Chris Haughton for an online zoom story session with a drawing activity. Have a pencil and a sheet of paper at the ready and we can draw together.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP via ZOOM
Date: Wednesday 18th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Age Group: Pre-school to Senior Infants
To book contact Aideen mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Date: Wednesday 18th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Age Group: Pre-school to Senior Infants
To book contact Aideen mcdonald at aideen.mcdonald@kilkennylibrary.ie
Chris Haughton is an illustrator and author originally from Dublin who now lives in London. One of the most exciting new voices in children’s literature, Chris is the acclaimed picture book creator of A Bit Lost, Oh No, George!, Shh! We Have a Plan, Maybe and many more.
His seven books have been translated into many languages around the world. He also made an iOS app, HAT MONKEY and a virtual reality experience LITTLE EARTH.
His seven books have been translated into many languages around the world. He also made an iOS app, HAT MONKEY and a virtual reality experience LITTLE EARTH.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOPS
Bookings open at 9am on 19th September
Pre-booking is essential
Please note that while we do our best to accommodate everyone, places are limited
To book in-person workshops, contact your partner library. See contact page for library details.
Please note: school groups should ONLY book for in-person events at their partner library. If you are not sure which library your school is partnered with, please contact Library Headquarters on 056 779 4160 info@kilkennylibrary.ie.
Bookings open at 9am on 19th September
Pre-booking is essential
Please note that while we do our best to accommodate everyone, places are limited
To book in-person workshops, contact your partner library. See contact page for library details.
Please note: school groups should ONLY book for in-person events at their partner library. If you are not sure which library your school is partnered with, please contact Library Headquarters on 056 779 4160 info@kilkennylibrary.ie.
In-person workshops summary (detailed descriptions below):
THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER
2nd to 6th class
12 noon to 1pm & 1.20pm to 2.20pm
Junior Infants to 3rd class
10am to 11am & 11.30am to 12.30pm
FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER
EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
9.30am t0 10.15am, 10.45am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 12.45pm
4th to 6th class
9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon, 12.30am to 1.30pm
Junior Infants to 4th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Junior Infants to 6th class
11am to 12 noon
MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER
Junior & Senior Infants
9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Junior Infants to 1st class
10am to 11am
Junior Infants to 6th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
3rd Class to 6th Class
10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm
TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER
Senior Infants to 2nd class
9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon & 12.30pm to 1.30pm
3rd to 6th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER
1st to 3rd class
10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm & 1pm to 2pm
2nd to 6th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Junior Infants to 5th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
- Illustrating History with Alan Dunne
2nd to 6th class
12 noon to 1pm & 1.20pm to 2.20pm
- Storytelling with Barnstorm
Junior Infants to 3rd class
10am to 11am & 11.30am to 12.30pm
FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER
- Sensory-friendly Music & Movement with Jess Rowell
EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
9.30am t0 10.15am, 10.45am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 12.45pm
- Irish History with Ann Murtagh
4th to 6th class
9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon, 12.30am to 1.30pm
- Nature Tales with Arran Towers
Junior Infants to 4th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
- Comedy Show with SHELF
Junior Infants to 6th class
11am to 12 noon
MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER
- Story Time with Duncan Beedie
Junior & Senior Infants
9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
- Singing with Music Generation Kilkenny
Junior Infants to 1st class
10am to 11am
- Art with Celina Buckley
Junior Infants to 6th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
- Samba Drumming with Music Generation Kilkenny
3rd Class to 6th Class
10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm
TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER
- Wild Story Making with Monkeyshine
Senior Infants to 2nd class
9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon & 12.30pm to 1.30pm
- Animal Safety & Drawing with Alma Jordan & Margaret Anne Suggs
3rd to 6th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER
- Pirate Ireland with Alan Nolan
1st to 3rd class
10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm & 1pm to 2pm
- Creative Writing with Brian Gallagher
2nd to 6th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
- Wildlife & Heritage with Emma-Jane Leeson
Junior Infants to 5th class
10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Illustrating History with ALAN DUNNE
Illustrating History with ALAN DUNNE
Alan Dunne
Step into a world where history meets art and unleash your inner creativity with illustrator Alan Dunne in this Illustrating History Workshop! In this thrilling session, you will be transported through time to various historical periods, where you'll learn about the people and events that have shaped our world and you will have the chance to create their very own historical illustrations. The workshop encourages creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking as you delve into the fascinating world of history through illustration. Join Alan and let your imagination soar!
Date: Thursday 12th October
Time: 12 noon to 1pm & 1.20pm to 2.20pm
Venue: Graiguenamanagh Library, Phone: 056 7794178, Email: graiguenamanagh@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 2nd to 6th class
Time: 12 noon to 1pm & 1.20pm to 2.20pm
Venue: Graiguenamanagh Library, Phone: 056 7794178, Email: graiguenamanagh@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 2nd to 6th class
Alan Dunne, the renowned and award-winning freelance illustrator from Ireland, is known for his critically acclaimed work in children's and young adult publications, graphic novels, editorial pieces, advertising campaigns, postage stamps, museums, restaurants, and restaurants and visitor centres. His unique style is distinctive and considered, blending digital and traditional processes with occasional paper-craft for added flair. In his work, Alan places great emphasis on storytelling and historical research, bringing his carefully researched characters and intricate details to life.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Storytelling with BARNSTORM
Storytelling with BARNSTORM
Jo Hennessy
Magical Story- Telling (Junior & Senior Infants)
Join Jo Hennessy from Barnstorm as we delve into the magic of storytelling. Using the theme of magic, and magical themed stories this workshop will bring stories to life for children. Using visualisation techniques, imagination and games to engage the storytelling process.
Read It-Tell It- Act It (1st to 3rd Class)
Focuses on reading stories that encourage active participation. Through movement-based storytelling and guided imagination play children will learn to express themselves and build expression.
Join Jo Hennessy from Barnstorm as we delve into the magic of storytelling. Using the theme of magic, and magical themed stories this workshop will bring stories to life for children. Using visualisation techniques, imagination and games to engage the storytelling process.
Read It-Tell It- Act It (1st to 3rd Class)
Focuses on reading stories that encourage active participation. Through movement-based storytelling and guided imagination play children will learn to express themselves and build expression.
Date: Thursday 12th October
Time: 10am to 11am for Junior & Senior Infants
11.30am to 12.30pm for 1st to 3rd Class
Venue: Ferrybank Library, Phone: 051 897200, Email: ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 3rd Class
Time: 10am to 11am for Junior & Senior Infants
11.30am to 12.30pm for 1st to 3rd Class
Venue: Ferrybank Library, Phone: 051 897200, Email: ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 3rd Class
Barnstorm Theatre Company in Kilkenny has pioneered theatre for children and young people for over 30 years. More than 700,000 children, young people and adults have had their imaginations sparked in the course of our work. We believe in the transformational potential of theatre, engagement with the local community, collaborations and partnerships; in pushing boundaries and offering opportunities to others to develop their practice.
Jo Hennessy, Participation & Education Officer with Barnstorm, has an extensive background in Drama Teaching and Education at both secondary and primary level. Jo is a trained actor and director who is passionate about bringing theatre to different facets of the community. Jo is responsible for facilitating Barnstorm’s education and participation programmes and is currently facilitating the Adult Theatre Club, Curriculum support materials, Creative Clusters, and Professional Development opportunities for Educators. Jo strives to develop new connections and community-based initiates and relationships.
Jo Hennessy, Participation & Education Officer with Barnstorm, has an extensive background in Drama Teaching and Education at both secondary and primary level. Jo is a trained actor and director who is passionate about bringing theatre to different facets of the community. Jo is responsible for facilitating Barnstorm’s education and participation programmes and is currently facilitating the Adult Theatre Club, Curriculum support materials, Creative Clusters, and Professional Development opportunities for Educators. Jo strives to develop new connections and community-based initiates and relationships.
FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Sensory friendly movement & music with JESS ROWELL
EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
Sensory friendly movement & music with JESS ROWELL
EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
Jess Rowell
A sensory friendly movement and music workshop designed for children with additional needs. The interactive and responsive nature of these workshops encourages participants to engage and explore in their own unique way. The group will be introduced to a range of movements, rhythms and appropriate props to enhance the sensory experience for all.
Date: Friday 13th October
Time: 9.30am to 10.15am, 10.45am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 12.45pm
Venue: City Library, Phone: 056 7794174, Email: citylibrary@kilkennylibrary.ie
EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN AGE 6 to 12 WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
Time: 9.30am to 10.15am, 10.45am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 12.45pm
Venue: City Library, Phone: 056 7794174, Email: citylibrary@kilkennylibrary.ie
EXCLUSIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN AGE 6 to 12 WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
Jess Rowell is an inclusive dance, artist, movement facilitator and maker of multisensory dance theatre experiences. She has performed, collaborated and directed work in both professional and community contexts for over 13 years. Inclusivity is at the heart of her practice and she is committed to making dance accessible by facilitating projects that engage young people, adults and artists with intellectual disabilities.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Irish history with ANN MURTAGH
Irish history with ANN MURTAGH
Ann Murtagh
What was being a boy or girl like during the Irish War of Independence? Come and hear Ann Murtagh read from her novel The Sound of Freedom to find out. She will also explore the historical sources that inspired her and how they were used to shape her story.
Date: Friday 13th October
Time: 9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Venue: Callan Library, Phone: 056 7794183, Email: callan@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 5th to 6th Class
Time: 9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon, 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Venue: Callan Library, Phone: 056 7794183, Email: callan@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 5th to 6th Class
Ann Murtagh lives in Kilkenny with her husband and two dogs. As well as The Sound of Freedom, she wrote The Kidds of Summerhill (2021) and The Climbing Boys (2023), also published by The O’Brien Press. She believes historical fiction is a great way to shine a light on the amazing lives and times of children in the past. Ann loves exploring history and sees possible stories at every turn!
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Nature tales with ARRAN TOWERS
Nature tales with ARRAN TOWERS
Arran Towers
Join Arran Towers for nature inspired story and crafts. Tales will be told inspired by Irish wildlife and clay creatures will be crafted inspired by the stories told.
Date: Friday 13th October
Time: 10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Castlecomer Library, Phone: 056 4440561, E-mail: castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 10.30am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 1pm for Junior Infants - 1st class
1.30pm to 2.30pm for 2nd - 4th Class
Time: 10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Castlecomer Library, Phone: 056 4440561, E-mail: castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 10.30am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 1pm for Junior Infants - 1st class
1.30pm to 2.30pm for 2nd - 4th Class
Arran Towers, as Tallest Smallest Theatre, offers a range of performance, storytelling and workshop options encompassing: puppetry, circus and nature connection crafts. Arran, based in Cork, has appeared nationwide in schools, libraries and art festivals and even twice in Glastonbury! As well as performing, Arran is a trained, and working, Forest School practitioner and currently is creating arts based school resources for the Green-Schools flag programme.
IN-PERSON COMEDY
Comedy show with SHELF
Comedy show with SHELF
SHELF - Ruby & Rachel
Join best friends Rachel and Ruby of SHELF for a kids' comedy show that's fun for all ages! Full of sketches, songs, pranks and silliness. Rachel and Ruby use physical comedy and silly characters to bring sketch comedy to children of all ages – a fun way to explore emotions, friendship and shyness.
Date: Friday 13th October
Time: 11am to 12 noon
Venue: Loughboy Library, Phone: 056 7794176, Email: loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 6th Class
Time: 11am to 12 noon
Venue: Loughboy Library, Phone: 056 7794176, Email: loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 6th Class
SHELF, winner: Best Kids' Show, 2023 Leicester Comedy Festival. Over one million views on BBC Three. Five star rating from Guardian, Scotsman, Skinny, FunnyWomen.com.
MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Story time with DUNCAN BEEDIE
Story time with DUNCAN BEEDIE
Duncan Beedie
Duncan Beedie will be giving a story time reading for all those who struggle to get to sleep. Join Bear as he tries his very best to get ready for his winter hibernation, without much luck. He will also be showcasing his latest Bear book, before showing you how to draw his characters.
Date: Monday 16th October
Time: 9.30am to 10.30pm, 11am to 12 noon & 12.30 to 1.30pm
Venue: City Library, Phone: 056 7794174, Email: citylibrary@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Pre-school to Senior Infants
Time: 9.30am to 10.30pm, 11am to 12 noon & 12.30 to 1.30pm
Venue: City Library, Phone: 056 7794174, Email: citylibrary@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Pre-school to Senior Infants
Duncan Beedie is a children’s author and illustrator from Bristol, UK. He's been obsessed with drawing ever since he could hold a felt tip in his clammy little fist, and has fond memories of sprawling out on his parents’ living room carpet for hours on end, filling sketchbooks with doodles.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Singing with MUSIC GENERATION KILKENNY Musician Educators
BARBARA KELLY & CLARE KILKENNY
Singing with MUSIC GENERATION KILKENNY Musician Educators
BARBARA KELLY & CLARE KILKENNY
Clare Kilkenny & Barbara Kelly
A fun and engaging singing workshop suitable for children age 8-12 years. During the workshop children will develop a strong sense of team spirit, co-operation, and communication through whole group singing engagement. Combining body percussion techniques and voice in the creation of songs performed as an ensemble. The workshop will give children the opportunity to socialise through singing, improve their singing ability and skill and grow their confidence, whilst having fun through singing.
Date: Monday 16th October
Time: 10am to 11am
Venue: Loughboy Library, Phone: 056 7794176, Email: loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 2nd Class
Time: 10am to 11am
Venue: Loughboy Library, Phone: 056 7794176, Email: loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 2nd Class
Barbara Kelly and Clare Kilkenny are vocal tutors with Music Generation Kilkenny since September 2019. They both teach on the Music Generation Kilkenny ‘Vocal Programme’ and ‘Music Makers Programme’ in primary schools across Kilkenny and deliver vocal workshops in the community. More recently they co-facilitates the ‘Kilkenny Youth Choir’, a very popular new Music Generation Kilkenny initiative.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Art with CELINA BUCKLEY
Art with CELINA BUCKLEY
Celina Buckley
The Salmon of Knowledge for Junior Infants to 2nd class. Based on Celina Buckley’s book The Salmon of Knowledge, this workshop will get children experimenting with colours, shapes and textures by creating a collage of underwater creatures full of knowledge and wisdom!
Observational Drawing for 3rd class to 6th class. SKY Landscape Artist of the Year Finalist Celina Buckley will show students in this workshop how observational drawing has had the most profound impact on her career as an artist and picture book creator. Students will learn how to begin drawing from real life observations, which materials may be best to begin with, composition possibilities, and tips on how to feel more comfortable when drawing on location.
Observational Drawing for 3rd class to 6th class. SKY Landscape Artist of the Year Finalist Celina Buckley will show students in this workshop how observational drawing has had the most profound impact on her career as an artist and picture book creator. Students will learn how to begin drawing from real life observations, which materials may be best to begin with, composition possibilities, and tips on how to feel more comfortable when drawing on location.
Date: Monday 16th October
Time: Salmon of Knowledge - 10.30am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 1pm for Junior Infants to 2nd class.
Observational Drawing - 1.30pm to 2.30pm for 3rd class to 6th class.
Venue: Castlecomer Library, Phone: 056 4440561, E-mail: castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 2nd class & 3rd class to 6th class
Time: Salmon of Knowledge - 10.30am to 11.30am & 12 noon to 1pm for Junior Infants to 2nd class.
Observational Drawing - 1.30pm to 2.30pm for 3rd class to 6th class.
Venue: Castlecomer Library, Phone: 056 4440561, E-mail: castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 2nd class & 3rd class to 6th class
Celina Buckley is an artist, author, illustrator and teacher from Co. Cork, Ireland. Her first picture book is a retelling of The Salmon of Knowledge published in 2019. It was used for a storyboarding lesson on RTÉ’s Home School Hub programme in 2020. She competed as a finalist on SKY Landscape Artist of the Year 2023 (UK and Northern Ireland). Buckley received an Agility Award from the Arts Council which helped make her ‘DOCKLANDS’ solo art exhibition possible, November 2022. Her work has been selected for exhibitions in GOMA - Waterford, Ranelagh Arts - Dublin, Cill Rialaig and K-Fest - Kerry, BeFramed - Cork.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Samba drumming with MUSIC GENERATION KILKENNY Musician Educator THOMAS DUFFY
Samba drumming with MUSIC GENERATION KILKENNY Musician Educator THOMAS DUFFY
Thomas Duffy
Bringing a Latin flavour to Thomastown, children participating will create the rhythms and
music of South America.
This workshop is a great introduction to rhythm and to foundational percussion techniques.
We provide samba percussion instruments for every child to join in. The children play
traditional instruments to create a samba rhythm and will be introduced to a wide range of
Brazilian percussion instruments including: drums, agogôs, cowbells, shakers and
tamborims.
music of South America.
This workshop is a great introduction to rhythm and to foundational percussion techniques.
We provide samba percussion instruments for every child to join in. The children play
traditional instruments to create a samba rhythm and will be introduced to a wide range of
Brazilian percussion instruments including: drums, agogôs, cowbells, shakers and
tamborims.
Date: Monday 17th October
Time: 10am to 11am & 11.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Thomastown community hall, Phone: 056 7794331, Email: thomastown@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 3rd to 6th Class
Time: 10am to 11am & 11.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Thomastown community hall, Phone: 056 7794331, Email: thomastown@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 3rd to 6th Class
Thomas Duffy is a Musician Educator with Music Generation Kilkenny delivering samba workshops to children and young people in schools and in the community. Thomas is a percussionist, visual artist and performer specialising in AfroBrazilian Percussion for almost 25 years.
TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Wild story making with MONKEYSHINE
Wild story making with MONKEYSHINE
Join Monkeyshine on a wild adventure into Story. Together we will investigate well known stories, take them apart and put them back together in new shapes and sizes. We will add fresh story ingredients and create fun and beautiful stories that explore, question and celebrate our place in the wonderful web of life. This is an active workshop filled with games, creativity and imagination.
Date: Tuesday 17th October
Time: 9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon & 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Venue: Graiguenamanagh Library, Phone: 056 7794178, Email: graiguenamanagh@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Senior Infants to 2nd class
Time: 9.30am to 10.30am, 11am to 12 noon & 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Venue: Graiguenamanagh Library, Phone: 056 7794178, Email: graiguenamanagh@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Senior Infants to 2nd class
Monkeyshine is an arts and Theatre company based in County Kilkenny. The company have been enchanting children and adults for 25 years with their beautiful stories and creative adventures. Their work explores themes of connection to each other and the living Earth and celebrates all that it is to be human.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Animal safety and drawing with ALMA JORDAN & MARGARET ANNE SUGGS
Animal safety and drawing with ALMA JORDAN & MARGARET ANNE SUGGS
Alma Jordan
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Margaret Anne Suggs
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Join Hazel Tree Farm author Alma Jordan and illustrator, Margaret Anne Suggs for a learn and draw workshop based on the farm life of Hazel Tree. Children will hear a passage from Blue the Brave, the first in the series, as well as learning more about animal safety and wellbeing. They’ll also have the opportunity to learn how to draw some of their favourite animals, so make sure to bring paper and pen!
Date: Tuesday 17th October
Time: 10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Thomastown Community Hall, Phone: 056 7794331, Email: thomastown@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 3rd to 6th class
Time: 10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Thomastown Community Hall, Phone: 056 7794331, Email: thomastown@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 3rd to 6th class
Alma Jordan
Alma Jordan lives on a farm in County Meath with her husband Mark and son Eamon. After a successful career in marketing and communications, she founded the award-winning social enterprise AgriKids in 2015 to spread the message of farm safety to children in a fun and engaging way. Alma grew up on a farm in Co. Kildare, and the Hazel Tree Farm series features lots of real-life stories from her childhood, as well as moments shared by the children she meets through her work today.
Margaret Anne Suggs
Margaret Anne Suggs is a children's book illustrator and has published over a dozen books in 4 languages. In a digital world, Margaret Anne still works by hand, creating intricate, heart-felt, delightful illustrations. Raised in the US, she moved to Ireland to pursue a Master's Degree at the National College of Art and Design. She lectures part-time at Ballyfermot College, where she founded the illustration course (Higher National Diploma). She lives with her family in Co. Dublin, by the sea.
Alma Jordan lives on a farm in County Meath with her husband Mark and son Eamon. After a successful career in marketing and communications, she founded the award-winning social enterprise AgriKids in 2015 to spread the message of farm safety to children in a fun and engaging way. Alma grew up on a farm in Co. Kildare, and the Hazel Tree Farm series features lots of real-life stories from her childhood, as well as moments shared by the children she meets through her work today.
Margaret Anne Suggs
Margaret Anne Suggs is a children's book illustrator and has published over a dozen books in 4 languages. In a digital world, Margaret Anne still works by hand, creating intricate, heart-felt, delightful illustrations. Raised in the US, she moved to Ireland to pursue a Master's Degree at the National College of Art and Design. She lectures part-time at Ballyfermot College, where she founded the illustration course (Higher National Diploma). She lives with her family in Co. Dublin, by the sea.
WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Pirate Ireland with ALAN NOLAN
Pirate Ireland with ALAN NOLAN
Alan Nolan
YARRR! Did you know that the most bungling buccaneers came from Ireland? Join author and illustrator Alan Nolan as he brings you on a thrilling pirate treasure hunt around (and under) some of Ireland’s most famous landmarks – as featured in his new children’s historical novel, Molly Malone and Bram Stoker in Double Trouble at the Dead Zoo. Meet the ‘real-life’ Molly and Bram, take part in the Clueless Corsair Quiz and learn how to draw Ireland’s unluckiest Pirate of all, the dread (and slightly dead) Captain Lamprey.
Date: Wednesday 18th October
Time: 10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm & 1pm to 2pm
Venue: Loughboy Library, Phone: 056 7794176, Email: loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 1st to 3rd class
Time: 10am to 11am, 11.30am to 12.30pm & 1pm to 2pm
Venue: Loughboy Library, Phone: 056 7794176, Email: loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 1st to 3rd class
Alan Nolan is the author and illustrator of Fintan’s Fifteen, Conor’s Caveman and the Sam Hannigan series, and he is the illustrator of the popular Gordon’s Game books written by Gordon D’Arcy and Paul Howard, as well as Animal Crackers by Sarah Webb. His new historical book, Molly Malone and Bram Stoker in Double Trouble at the Dead Zoo, the follow up to his popular novel, The Sackville Street Caper, is out now from The O’Brien Press.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Creative writing with BRIAN GALLAGHER
Creative writing with BRIAN GALLAGHER
Brian Gallagher
As the author of the novel Taking Sides, Brian Gallagher’s workshop will be based on this adventure story set during Ireland’s Civil War that explores the conflict from both sides, through the eyes of childhood friends.
The workshop will explore the nuts and bolts of how a novel is constructed – plotting, characterisation, historical research, etc. and will also feature questions and answers, and a reading from Taking Sides.
The workshop will explore the nuts and bolts of how a novel is constructed – plotting, characterisation, historical research, etc. and will also feature questions and answers, and a reading from Taking Sides.
Date: Wednesday 18th October
Time: 10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Ferrybank Library, Phone: 051 897200, Email: ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 2nd to 6th class
Time: 10.30am to 11.30am, 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Ferrybank Library, Phone: 051 897200, Email: ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: 2nd to 6th class
Brian Gallagher was born in Dublin. He is a full-time writer whose plays and short stories have been produced in Ireland, Britain and Canada. He has worked extensively in radio and television, writing many dramas and documentaries. Brian is the author of four adult novels, and many popular books of historical fiction for young readers including One Good Turn and Friend or Foe – both set in Dublin in 1916, Stormclouds, Secrets and Shadows, Taking Sides, Across the Divide, Arrivals, Pawns, and Resistance. Brian lives with his family in Dublin.
IN-PERSON WORKSHOP
Wildlife & heritage with EMMA-JANE LEESON
Wildlife & heritage with EMMA-JANE LEESON
Emma-Jane Leeson
Johnny Magory Wildlife & Heritage Workshop with Emma-Jane Leeson.
Fun, interactive workshop involving reading Johnny Magory Adventure books, Irish dancing & music, followed by a fun, educational discussion on Irish wildlife and heritage with Emma-Jane Leeson. The children will also be encouraged to use their imaginations and draw or write their own stories.
Fun, interactive workshop involving reading Johnny Magory Adventure books, Irish dancing & music, followed by a fun, educational discussion on Irish wildlife and heritage with Emma-Jane Leeson. The children will also be encouraged to use their imaginations and draw or write their own stories.
Date: Wednesday 18th October
Time: Junior Infants to 1st class at 10.30am to 11.30am
2nd to 5th class at 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Urlingford library, Phone: 056 7794182, Email: urlingford@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 1st class & 2nd to 5th class
Time: Junior Infants to 1st class at 10.30am to 11.30am
2nd to 5th class at 12 noon to 1pm & 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Venue: Urlingford library, Phone: 056 7794182, Email: urlingford@kilkennylibrary.ie
Age Group: Junior Infants to 1st class & 2nd to 5th class
Emma-Jane Leeson is one of Ireland’s leading children’s author living in Kildare beside the beautiful ‘Special Area of Conservation’ Ballynafagh Lake. Emma-Jane wrote her first ‘story about Johnny Magory’ 18 years ago for her first daughter. These stories are all based on the old rhyme “Will I tell you a story about Johnny Magory? Will I begin it, that’s all that’s in it!” which her father used to tell her every night. Each of the stories educates children on Irish heritage and wildlife in a fun way. She is currently writing the TV animation series ‘Johnny Magory’.
EJ spent her childhood outside, where she was happiest. Not a lot has changed in three decades. This love of nature and the outdoors inspired EJ to write down a few stories and bring Johnny McGory to the next generation.
EJ spent her childhood outside, where she was happiest. Not a lot has changed in three decades. This love of nature and the outdoors inspired EJ to write down a few stories and bring Johnny McGory to the next generation.