Laois and Longford County Councils launch innovative memory box project Bosca Beo

Press Release: Monday, 9 March 2026 

Laois and Longford County Councils have today unveiled Bosca Beo, an innovative project designed to help people record, collect, cherish, and share their life memories with loved ones. 

Developed collaboratively by the Creative Ireland, Age Friendly, Library Services, and Healthy Ireland teams in both local authorities, Bosca Beo takes the form of a beautifully illustrated memory box, styled after a vintage suitcase. Inside, there is space to safely store keepsakes, photographs, documents, and other important personal items. 

The box launched today at Portlaoise Library, contains a set of 80 prompt cards with gentle questions to help spark memories and conversations. These cards are ideal for sharing stories with family members of all ages, making it a wonderful intergenerational activity. Included is a life journal where people can write about their experiences, from childhood through to the present day. In addition, Bosca Beo includes a family tree booklet, allowing users to record details about themselves and previous generations, helping to preserve their family history for the future.

Cllr Barry Walsh, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council said: 

"I am delighted to see the launch of Bosca Beo today alongside our collaborators in Longford. Listening and learning from older generations, is something I consider incredibly important and Bosca Beo will give families the opportunity to create and keep memories for generations to come. Congratulations to everyone involved in creating this initiative."

This project was carefully developed throughout 2025 with the valuable input of the Age Friendly Older Persons Councils in both counties, ensuring that Bosca Beo genuinely meets the needs of those who will use it. 

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said:

"Our older citizens hold a wealth of knowledge and experience that deserves to be recorded and celebrated. This project will strengthen family bonds across generations and create treasured keepsakes that families will value for decades to come. I encourage everyone to engage with this wonderful resource."

Bosca Beo will be available free of charge through the library networks in both counties.