Bealtaine at the Library – May 2026

This May, Sligo County Libraries are taking part in the Bealtaine Festival with a range of events happening across our branches. Bealtaine is a national festival that celebrates creativity in older age and encourages people to try something new, share experiences, and get involved in the arts. Our programme includes a variety of workshops, talks, and activities, offering opportunities to learn new skills, meet others, and enjoy creative experiences in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Five ways to a Healthier You with Dr. Ailis Brosnan

Wednesday 13th of May at 12.30pm

Wellness Workshop and Talk with Dr. Ailis Brosnan.  A Healthy Ireland at your Library event.

Booking Required.

How Media Works with Aoife Barry

Friday 15th of May at 12.30pm

How media and social media work, how algorithms work, what to watch out for with AI content, and tips to avoid being scammed online.

Booking Required.

Exploring Ireland’s Bats

Wednesday 20th of May at 12.30pm

A talk on bats with Mary Roberts of Bat Conservation Ireland.

Booking Required.

Sligo Library Open Day & Help Session

Thursday 21st of May from 10am – 12noon

Learn about the services your library offers and get one-to-one help with BorrowBox, reserving titles, and more.

NO Booking Required.

The Hits and Misses of Aspiring Authors Over 60

Tuesday 26th of May at 2.00pm

The hits and Misses of Aspiring Authors Over 60.  Readings, anecdotes and conversation with two regional writers who launched their literary careers at age 60+.

Booking Required.

Poetry Sharing Event with Terry McDonagh

Friday 29th of May at 12.30pm – 2pm

Bring a favourite poem to share, or simply come and listen—featuring readings by Terry McDonagh, including his own work and cherished poems by others.  For Poetry Day Ireland.

Booking Required.

Crafting in the Kitchen - Weekly Crafting Group

Every Thursday from 10.30am – 12.30pm

Bring your knitting, painting, sewing, or any craft you’re working on – or come along to try something new and connect with fellow makers.

NO Booking Required.

Ciorcal Comhrá / Conversational Irish

Friday 8th and Friday 22nd of May from 12.30pm – 1.30pm

(meets regularly on every other Friday.)

Bígí linn le haghaidh ciorcal comhrá a bheidh ar siúl i Leabharlann/ Join us for a conversation circle taking place in Sligo Library.

NO Booking Required.

Digital Skills Workshops with MSLETB

Contact us to express interest in upcoming workshops

Learn basic phone and internet skills.  Ongoing courses.

Booking Required.

Poetry Sharing Event with Terry McDonagh

Wednesday 27th of May from 12.30pm – 2pm

Bring a favourite poem to share, or simply come and listen—featuring readings by Terry McDonagh, including his own work and cherished poems by others.  For Poetry Day Ireland.

NO Booking Required.

Ballymote Art Group Exhibition

1st – 31st May

Discover local creativity at a free art exhibition by the Ballymote Art Group, on display in the library’s meeting room.

NO Booking Required.

Fifty, Fit & Flourishing with Dr. Ailis Brosnan

Wednesday 13th of May at 3pm

Empowering Midlife Women to Thrive Through Purposeful Exercise, Nourishing Food, and a Joyful Mindset

Join Dr. Ailis Brosnan for an inspiring and practical talk that puts exercise at the heart of healthy ageing, showing midlife women (especially those 50+) how to build strength, boost energy, and embrace vitality for the years ahead. Blending her expertise with an engaging, motivational style, this session empowers you to customise movement for your changing body—focusing on strength training, mobility, and endurance to support longevity and independence—while exploring nutrient-dense eating to energise you and a resilient mindset to age with confidence and joy. Walk away motivated and equipped to flourish, feeling stronger, more energised, and excited about what’s next.

Booking Required.

Poetry Sharing Event with Terry McDonagh

Thursday 28th of May from 12.30pm – 2pm

Bring a favourite poem to share, or simply come and listen—featuring readings by Terry McDonagh, including his own work and cherished poems by others.  For Poetry Day Ireland.

NO Booking Required.