Discover More at Your Library on National Public Libraries Open Day 2026
Sligo County Libraries is inviting people of all ages to visit their local library on Saturday, 26 September, for National Public Libraries Open Day 2026 and discover the benefits of free library membership.
National Public Libraries Open Day is a nationwide celebration of Ireland’s public library network, showcasing the wide range of services, programmes and resources available through the country’s 330 public libraries. The day encourages everyone, whether they are regular library users, have not visited in a while or have never joined before, to explore what their local library has to offer.
Libraries continue to be a destination for book lovers, with extensive collections for readers of all ages and interests. However, modern libraries offer much more than books. Members can access eBooks, audiobooks, online newspapers and magazines, learning resources, family programmes, cultural events, community activities and welcoming spaces to read, learn and connect.
From discovering a new favourite author to exploring local history, developing new skills or taking part in community activities, libraries offer opportunities for everyone. Membership is free, and library staff are always happy to help visitors discover the services and resources available to them.
Throughout September and on Open Day itself, libraries across Ireland will host events and activities to encourage visits, participation and library membership.
Sligo County Libraries looks forward to welcoming visitors and encouraging more people to discover how their local library can enrich everyday life.
National Public Libraries Open Day Events
BALLYMOTE COMMUNITY LIBRARY
Little Gem Puppets
Join us at Ballymote Community Library on Saturday, 26th September at 12.30pm for a colourful, family-friendly storytelling performance from Little Gem Puppets.
Loosely based on Hansel and Gretel, the story follows puppet Maggie and her best buddy Rexy as they find themselves on an adventure they weren’t expecting!
Throughout the performance, the puppets encourage audience participation, giving children the chance to engage their imaginations and become part of the storytelling experience.
- Ballymote Community Library
- Saturday, 26th September
- 12.30pm
- Suitable for ages 4–8
- No booking required
SLIGO CENTRAL LIBRARY
Toddle Time Storytime
Join us in for our regular Friday morning Toddle Time Storytime, featuring stories and more for little ones aged 0 through 4.
- Sligo Central Library
- Friday, 25th September
- 10.00am
- Suitable for ages 0–4
- No booking required
Boardgames and LEGO Hour
Join us for an afternoon of building, playing and having fun as part of National Public Libraries Open Day! Bring a friend, challenge someone to a board game, or see what you can create with LEGO.
- Sligo Central Library
- Saturday, 26th September
- 3pm – 4pm
- Suitable for ages 4+
- No booking required
Sligo Library Thriller & True Crime Book Club (For Adults)
Do you love a good page-turner and are fascinated by true crime stories?
Then why not join our Thrillers & True Crime Book Club at Sligo Central Library where you will find plenty to discuss with fellow book lovers.
New members are welcome to join our next session taking place on Saturday 26th of September at 3pm.
To book a place, email sligolib@sligococo.ie or phone 0719111675
- Sligo Central Library
- Saturday, 26th September
- 3pm – 4pm
Toddle Time Storytime Special with Lisa Cannon
Join us for a special Toddle Time Storytime featuring Lisa Cannon. There will be songs and stories and lots of fun!
- Sligo Central Library
- Friday, 2nd October
- 10.00am
- Suitable for ages 0–4
- No booking required
TUBBERCURRY COMMUNITY LIBRARY
Little Gem Puppets
Join us at Tubbercurry Community Library on Saturday, 26th September at 12.30pm for a colourful, family-friendly storytelling performance from Little Gem Puppets.
Loosely based on Hansel and Gretel, the story follows puppet Maggie and her best buddy Rexy as they find themselves on an adventure they weren’t expecting!
Throughout the performance, the puppets encourage audience participation, giving children the chance to engage their imaginations and become part of the storytelling experience.
- Tubbercurry Community Library
- Saturday, 26th September
- 10.00am
- Suitable for ages 4–8
- No booking required