New Dementia Book Club launches at Letterkenny library in October

Central Library Letterkenny will host a new Dementia Book Club from 1 October, offering a six‑week programme for people living with dementia and their carers.

The initiative, run by Donegal Library Service in partnership with Dr Clara Neary of Atlantic Technological University, provides a relaxed setting where participants can share short prose or poems read together on the day, without any pre‑reading or homework.

Each session, beginning at 11 am on Thursdays, aims to foster conversation, memories and enjoyment over a cup of tea, focusing on the pleasure of reading rather than recall or analysis.

Named “Still Reading”, the free club seeks to challenge the perception that dementia excludes people from hobbies such as reading. Places are limited and advance registration is required via email central@donegallibrary.ie or phone 074 912 4950.

Donegal libraries also feature Tovertafels – interactive tables with colourful games – available in Letterkenny, Buncrana, Twin Towns (Stranorlar) and Leabharlann Phobail Ghaoth Dobhair, encouraging further social interaction for people with dementia and their families.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels.