Creativity shines in Longford Libraries’ ‘Design a Bookmark’ Competition

Over 950 entries received throughout County Longford

Press Release: Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Longford Library Services is delighted to announce the winners of this year’s ‘Design a Bookmark’ competition, held during October as part of the Children’s Book Festival. The initiative sparked incredible creativity among young readers, with over 950 entries received from across County Longford.

The competition invited children aged 4–13 to design bookmarks celebrating their love of books and reading. Entry forms were distributed to every primary school in the county and made available in all six branch libraries.

After much deliberation, the judges selected the following winners:

4–8 Age Category

• 1st: Sophia Gregory, (8) Granard Branch Library
• 2nd: Harry Cassidy, (8) Longford Branch Library
• 3rd: Clóda Corcoran, (7) Granard Branch Library

9–13 Age Category

• 1st: Hafsa Abrar Yasmin, (11) Longford Branch Library
• 2nd: Lillie Byrne, (11) Granard Branch Library
• 3rd: Lara Cristina, (11) Ballymahon Branch Library

The first-placed designs in each category will be professionally printed and distributed across all Longford Libraries, ensuring these young artists’ work will be enjoyed by readers countywide. Each of the six winners also received a special art set in recognition of their talent.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said, "This competition highlights the creativity and imagination of our young people. It’s wonderful to see so many children engaging with books and expressing their love of reading through art."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, "Our libraries are central to community life, and this competition gives children a chance to contribute something lasting. These bookmarks will inspire readers of all ages for years to come."

Longford Library Services extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, schools, and families who supported the event. The enthusiasm shown reflects the strong culture of reading and creativity in County Longford.

For more information on upcoming library events, visit www.longfordlibrary.ie or contact your local branch.