Delvin gearing up for 16th annual book festival

The 16th annual Delvin Book Festival will be taking place once again on May 3 throughout many premises on the main street of Delvin.

The village will host the sale of over 20,000 books from all ages and genres, very kindly donated by the Meath and Westmeath libraries, publishers and donations from individuals all over the country the sale of which supports the upkeep of the Delvin Sport & Leisure Centre and sensory garden.

“We are grateful to the Tierney, Shaughnessy and Gaffney families for opening their shopfronts for us this year, as well as the Youth Reach centre. They really add to the atmosphere of the festival,” said the committee.

Gaffney's front room in particular hosts a collection of rare or valuable books, which is always exciting to rummage through.

“We have had doctors find important textbooks there, artists find some reference books, and even a few copies of the festival's literary inspiration “The Valley of the Squinting Windows” pass through.”

The courtyard in the centre of the village will also host performances from local primary and Irish Dancing schools.

An organiser, Norman Dolan said “It’s probably the best little move we’ve made since we started the festival.”

The festival begins on Sunday, 3 of May with the opening at St. Patrick's Hall in Delvin at 12 noon until 5pm.

It is always encouraged to bring a bag, as you never know what treasures you might find.