Read DL 2026 opens, aiming to create awareness and love of reading in Donegal

Read DL 2026 opened this week on Thursday, January 8. 

It launched on 'Around the Northwest' with John Breslin on Highland Radio. The chosen book this year is The boy with big decisions by Helen Rutter.

READ DL will continue until March 26. Highland Radio will again broadcast at the closing ceremony in Glenveagh National Park. There are 2,000 books available again this year, priced at €2 each. You can now register on the READ DL website www.readdonegal.com. Registration will close as soon as the 2,000 books are gone. READ DL has now distributed over 22,000 books since 2012.  

The aim of READ DL is a simple one: to create an awareness and a love of reading in County Donegal. Joseph Kelly, Executive Librarian and Right to Read Coordinator with Donegal County Library Service, spoke at this year's launch. He was thrilled with the demand. 

“We are delighted to be up and running once again for 2026,” he said. “This is a great project. It captures the imagination of teachers, students, community groups and families from across the County. Read DL happens at the same time as Ireland Reads. It's a national celebration day of reading. There will be plenty of literacy activities and local events happening. 

“We are also delighted with the support again this year from both Donegal ETB and the Adult Literacy for Life Office. As well as Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal. This is a successful partnership that promotes and encourages reading within the whole community.

“We also realise that while we cannot meet the demand for books, we encourage everyone to take part in READ DL. You can do this by visiting www.donegalculture.ie and reserving copies of the book. Or visit your local library branch for a copy. Book resources and competitions are also available on the www.readdonegal.com website.”

This year’s book is especially relevant to all 6th class and first-year students. They have to make big decisions about school, friends and what they wish to do in life.  Helen Rutter, the author, will host an online webinar during the initiative for all who register.  

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Read DL is a ‘One Book, One Community’ literacy initiative which takes place each spring.  We are grateful for the support of all the agencies and volunteers involved in the committee. They contribute so much of their time to its annual success.

For more information on the work of READ DL and to view past books and authors, visit the READ DL social media platforms and www.readdonegal.com

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