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Celebrating Bealtaine in Westmeath Libraries
Celebrating Bealtaine in Westmeath Libraries.
In the seventeenth year of Bealtaine, Ireland's national celebration of creativity as we age, Bealtaine aims to involve older people in the arts, through expression and active participation and also encourages older people to engage as an experienced audience for all art forms.
In Westmeath , libraries have been working to bring a range of events for our older citizens. During May, Castlepollard Library is hosting the Cherry Blossom Time exhibition by Gráinne Uí Chonláin. This exhibition incorporates the art and culture of Japan, offering insights into daily life from tea ceremonies and dolls to kimonos and sandals, as well as paintings and origami.
On Wednesday 9th May, Westmeath Library in conjunction with the Arts Office, were able to bring the Carnation Theatre group to libraries in Castlepollard, Mullingar and Killucan. The theatre group offered a circus themed show which engaged the audiences with reminiscences, drama and song. Residents from Newbrook Nursing Home, Maple Court Nursing Home and members of the Killucan/Raharney Golden Years Club were some of the groups who had the chance to enjoy and participate in the performance.
The Aidan Heavey Library in Athlone plays host to two exhibitions during Bealtaine. The first celebrated The Early Years of the All Ireland Drama Festival, a topic which would inspire a lot of reminiscences for people in the town. (Closes May 14th). From 21st-25th May, the Library will host the work of St Peter’s and St Mary’s Active Retirement Associations.
In addition, as part of Bealtaine, Castlepollard Library will play host to a creative writing workshop facilitated by Grace Brennan . Places are limited and must be booked.
Wrapping up, Mullingar Library will be hosting a morning of Song and Rhyme on Tues 29th May 11am- 12am to celebrate Bealtaine.
Westmeath Library Service is committed to engaging with our older citizens. During Bealtaine, they are invited to drop into any of our libraries and explore the range of services available; why not pick up a good book, or try listening to an audio book or find out about the One Click Audio Book service which allows Library members to download audio books in the comfort of their own home.
For further details on any event, visit the library website at www.westmeathcoco.ie/library or telephone Athlone Library on 090 6442157, Castlepollard Library on 044 9332199 or Mullingar Library on 044 9332161.
