The National Museum at Turlough Park is delighted to host the official launch of the Children’s Books of Mayo Map on 7 June 2025, as part of Cruinniú na nÓg, Ireland’s national day celebrating creativity in young people.

The event will be a celebration of more than 50 children's books associated with Co. Mayo, with book readings, interactive art workshops, and hands-on creative activities. The day is designed to highlight the incredible artistry behind these books and the creativity they spark in children.

Event Highlights

• Book readings will take place at 12noon, 12.30pm, 1pm, 1.30pm and 3pm, featuring authors, beloved characters, and even some of the real people who inspired these stories. No booking required
• Book-inspired science experiments with Lab-a-dab-a-doo at 1pm and 3pm. No booking required
• Official launch at 2pm of the Children's Books of Mayo Map followed by a 'Children of Lir' performance with the pupils of Castlebar Primary School. No booking required
• Explore the 'Islands of Imagination' display of children's art and create your own character inspired by the project. This is a self-guided, drop-in activity. No booking required
• Hands-on, eco-friendly workshop to make and decorate your own seed paper in the Courtyard Workshop Room. This is a drop-in activity available between 11am and 2pm. No booking required. FIND OUT MORE
• Interactive art workshops with Maeve Clancy and Anthony Kelly at 1pm and 3pm (these workshops are now fully booked)
   

About the Children's Books of Mayo Map Project & Partners

The Children’s Books of Mayo Map Project is a collaborative initiative led by Mayo County Library and Mayo County Council’s Culture and Creativity Team, with support from local authors, illustrators, publishers, and booksellers. Their combined efforts have made this project possible, celebrating Mayo’s literary landscape and inspiring young readers.

The launch event is generously hosted by the National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park, with additional support from Mayo County Council’s Local Authority Integration Team, Castlebar Primary School, and the authors, illustrators, bookstores, and publishers who have contributed to this project.

The National Museum of Ireland at Park, home to the Irish Folklife Collection, provides an ideal venue for the launch. Set within 30 acres of lush parkland, the museum showcases the county’s rich cultural heritage and serves as a hub for exploring Irish history and traditions.