Longford County Libraries launch Art Competition for secondary school students

Celebrating young artistic talent

Press Release: Thursday, 10 September 2026

Longford County Council has announced the launch of the Longford Libraries Art Competition 2026, inviting secondary school students across County Longford to showcase their creativity through original artwork celebrating the theme ‘Cover Version.’ 

The competition, challenges young artists to submit entries based on the theme ‘Cover Version’ which requires students to reimagine the cover of their favourite book.

Twelve winning entries will be selected for publication in the official Longford Libraries 2027 Calendar, which will be distributed free of charge across all six Longford Libraries.

Students can enter in two categories: Junior Cycle (1st-3rd Year) and Senior Cycle (4th-6th Year). Each winning artist will receive a €50 prize, and their work will be exhibited across Longford Libraries and online.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Gerry Hagan, said, "Books inspire imagination, and this competition gives young people a chance to bring that imagination to life through art. I encourage students from across County Longford to get involved, be creative and have fun reimagining the cover of a favourite book. I look forward to seeing the ideas, talent and originality that our young artists will share with us."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council Samantha Healy added, "Longford County Libraries play an important role in supporting creativity, learning and cultural participation. This competition is a wonderful opportunity for young people to showcase their artistic talent and engage with reading in a fresh and imaginative way. We are proud to support initiatives that celebrate young people and encourage them to express themselves through the arts."

The competition aims to capture and celebrate local young talent whilst providing artists with a platform to share their work with the wider community.

Entry Details:

• Open to all secondary school students in County Longford
• Submit scanned digital artwork with entry form to: libraryhqteam@longfordcoco.ie
• Physical entry forms available at all local libraries
• Artwork must be in portrait orientation and an original piece of work

Submission forms can be downloaded from here Art-Form-2026.pdf

or visit your local library branch for more information.