Longford County Council and Longford Library Services launch 'One Mystery, One Town'

A creative approach to literacy and learning 

Press Release: Monday, 12 January 2026 

Longford County Council and Longford Library Services proudly launched the 'One Mystery, One Town' initiative on Wednesday, 7 January, at Edgeworthstown Library. This innovative project invites the entire community to read and engage with the same book - Brian Gallagher's thrilling novel 'The Case of the Vanishing Painting' - creating a shared experience that promotes literacy, creativity, and community spirit. 

The event brought together local schools, families, and organisations, with pupils from St. John's N.S. and St. Mary's N.S. attending alongside parents and library staff. The atmosphere was vibrant, reflecting the excitement and curiosity the project aims to inspire. 

Coordinated by Enda Ward, Home School Community Liaison, and Kim Taylor, librarian at Edgeworthstown Library, the launch highlighted the educational and social benefits of shared reading. The initiative encourages discussion across generations, strenghtens family-school-library partnerships, and offers creative opportunities through writing, art, and problem-solving activities. 

The project has already attracted national attention, featuring on The Oliver Callan Show on RTÉ Radio 1. Author Brian Gallagher will visit Edgeworthstown Library on Friday, 27 February, as part of the Ireland Reads programme. 

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "This project is a wonderful example of how reading can bring people together. 'One Mystery, One Town' is about more than a book - it's about community, creativity, and connection. I'm delighted to see our libraries leading the way in fostering a love of reading across all ages."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "Initiatives like this show the power of collaboration. By linking schools, families, and libraries, we are creating opportunities for learning and engagement that will have a lasting impact. Longford County Council is proud to support a project that celebrates literacy and strenghtens community ties."

This project is funded by Longford County Council and Creative Ireland, reflecting a shared commitment to cultural development and lifelong learning.