Longford County Libraries launch Art Competition for Secondary School Students

Longford County Council has announced the launch of the Longford Libraries Art Competition 2025, inviting secondary school students across County Longford to showcase their creativity through original artwork celebrating the theme 'Reading Takes You Places.'

The competition, proudly supported by Creative Ireland as part of this year's Children's Book Festival, challenges young artists to capture the limitless journeys that books inspire - across time, place, imagination, and emotion. Twelve winning entries will be selected for publication in the official Longford Libraries 2026 Calendar, which will be distributed free of charge across all six Longford libraries. 

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Students can enter in two categories: Junior Cycle (1st-3rd Year) and Senior Cycle (4th-6th Year). Each winning artist will receive a €50 prize, and their work will be exhibited across Longford Libraries and online. 

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said: "This competition presents an excellent opportunity for our young people to express their creativity whilst celebrating the magic of reading. I encourage all secondary school students in Longford to pick up their pencils or brushes and show us where books have taken them. Art and literature are powerful forces that enrich our communities, and we're excited to see the unique perspectives our talented students will bring to this theme."

Chief Executive Paddy Mahon added, "This art competition perfectly aligns with our corporate plan's commitment to fostering cultural development and supporting our young citizens. By providing a platform for local artistic talent, we're not only celebrating creativity but also strengthening the vital connection between our libraries and the communities they serve. These initiatives demonstrate how public services can nurture the cultural fabric of County Longford whilst encouraging lifelong learning."

The competition aims to capture and celebrate local young talent whilst providing artists with a platform to share their work with the wider community. A panel from the Longford Cultural Team will judge submissions.

Entry Details:

• Open to all secondary school students in County Longford
• Submit scanned digital artwork with entry form to: libraryhqteam@longfordcoco.ie
• Physical entry forms available at all local libraries 
• Artwork must be A4 size and original

Submission forms can be downloaded from Longford Libraries website Longford Libraries Art Competition or visit your local library branch for more information.

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