Delvin prepares for book festival
The former Delvin Book Fair is being expanded into a three-day festival this year, and it’s on its traditional date, the May bank holiday weekend.
Now called the Delvin Book Festival, it opens on Friday of next week, April 28, with an arts and crafts exhibition and demonstration in St Patrick’s Hall, but the main event, is – as always – the book fair, which is on Sunday April 30.
One of the largest book fairs in the country, it attracts thousands of bibliophiles from across the country, and as all books cost €1 for adult books and 50 cent for children’s, it easy to see why.
Last year’s book fair was moved from Delvin Mart to venues around the village. Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, a spokesperson for the organising committee said the move was positive.
“We made the move into town last year and it proved more than successful. People enjoyed moving from venue to venue and it was a wonderful opportunity to put Delvin on the literary map.
“Footfall was sensational. Visitors spent an enjoyable afternoon browsing and buying. There were thousands of books on offer and this year will be even better. After a year of re-stocking, we have a container full of second-hand books to sell.
“The fiction section is particularly strong this year and as ever, non-fiction includes everything from gardening to philosophy. The children’s section was virtually cleared last year, but we are happy to report that we have even more titles on offer this April.
“As usual, there will be a special room assigned in the hall so that young readers have the opportunity to meet friends and choose their books in comfort. Pocket money goes a long when they can buy two books for €1,” the spokesperson said.
Delvin Book Fair started 12 years ago as a fundraiser for the Delvin Sports and Leisure Centre, a community space. Today, the DSLC is used by hundreds of people every day.
“We now have one of the best outdoor soccer pitches in the midlands, designated areas for GAA and Scout training, a walk and running track, outdoor gym equipment and a commitment to the creation of a sensory garden,” the spokesperson said.
“All of this was made possible by people who love books. In 2022, almost 2,500 people came to Delvin looking for a book for €1. Nobody walked out of there empty handed. Most left laden.
“Prepare to fill your bags and then dive back in to fill your boot! Also give yourself time to meet other readers. It is an opportunity to meet people who love books, to get recommendations or to discover new authors.
“As always, the organisers will be on hand to point you in the right direction.
“This is a great opportunity to thank those who have helped us this year – Westmeath and Meath Library services, local schools, Youthreach and every person who took the time to clear their shelves and donate their books. Your support is much appreciated. Looking forward to meeting you all on the 30th.”