Book launch of Out on Our Own by Benny Reid takes place in Longford Library
To be launched by Irish Times Journalist Kathy Sheridan
Press Release: Monday, 24 March 2025
A major new book by author Benny Reid, entitled Out on Our Own: A History of the People and Places of Annaly and Breifne, will be launched in Longford Library on Thursday, 3 April. The event starts at 7pm and all are welcome to attend.
The book concerns the history of Longford and parts of the surrounding region, including counties Leitrim and Cavan. The book received some funding from Longford County Council's Small Grant Scheme for Local Books. It will be launched by Irish Times Journalist Kathy Sheridan, who has deep roots in north Longford.
Benny Reid is a native of north Longford. After 30 years in teaching, he worked as a mortgage broker, based in Aughnacliffe. He was a member of several educational bodies including County Longford VEC and the Senate of the National University of Ireland. Benny has a passionate interest in local history and this book is the result of nine years of research.
Speaking ahead of the book launch, Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Mark Casey said, "I congratulate Benny on his book which has resulted from years of meticulous research. The book takes a different approach to local history, as it looks at County Longford and our two neighbours: Leitrim and Cavan. It shows us our shared history, including our similarities and differences. I encourage everyone to have a read of this wonderful book."
Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon said, "The Council, through our Small Grant Scheme for Local Books and the ongoing and dedicated work of our Longford Libraries, Arts, Archives and Heritage team, are proud to support this excellent book which will be read with interest by people across Longford, Cavan and Leitrim."
Author Benny Reid added, "I'm hugely grateful to the Council for its recognition and support of this book, and particularly to the staff of Longford County Library and Archives. As somebody who has lived in Longford all of my life and was reared a stones-throw from where the counties of Longford, Leitrim and Cavan meet, I have had an enduring interest in the rich history and heritage of this place. I hope this book brings that history to life and does justice to the story of the people who helped shape it, including those who left and made their mark across the world."
Out on Our Own: A History of the People and Place of Annaly and Breifne by author Benny Reid will be available to purchase at the event for the special price of €32. It will also be available after the event at several outlets for the regular price of €35.
