Sinéad Flynn
Head of Further Education and Training, Down Syndrome Ireland
Aisling Brown
Further Education and Training Officer, Down Syndrome Ireland
Book clubs provide opportunities for people with Down syndrome to read, socialise and be out in a supportive, accessible environment.
What began as a simple local project three years ago is now a successful nationwide programme. All levels of reading are welcome, from proficient readers to those who cannot read.
Collaborative, member-led book clubs
With the support of SOLAS, the State agency that oversees the further education and training sector in Ireland, Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) collaborates with libraries, Education and Training Boards (ETBs), DSI local branches, families, service providers and adults with Down syndrome.
DSI Adult Education staff members, adults with Down syndrome and library staff work together to facilitate the book clubs. Members and staff take ownership of the book club. Members choose the club’s name and help shape its focus. Some themes include cookery and music. Members can choose books on any topic.
DSI staff keep in contact with library staff and members and are always available to support. The success of the initiative is due to several factors, including collaboration between the stakeholders, members’ ownership and enjoyment.
It’s social and educational. It’s
also about the confidence and
interaction. I’d recommend it!
Fostering learning and connection
As well as providing an opportunity for lifelong learning, book clubs are excellent for fostering social and life skills. Some members travel independently to book clubs. The feedback speaks volumes.
Colm, facilitator of The All Stars Book Club in Mullingar Library, explains: “Being a facilitator is deeply rewarding. The attendees are some of our most engaged and enthusiastic members. It’s a constant reminder of the importance of broad, inclusive literacy promotion.”
Niamh, member of The Social Readers Book Club in Naas, Co. Kildare, shares: “My favourite thing is seeing my friends and the books, too. It’s social and educational. It’s also about the confidence and interaction. I’d recommend it!”
Book clubs expanding nationwide
Currently, there are 18 book clubs nationwide, 17 in public libraries and one in the University of Limerick. DSI is working with a number of other libraries to expand the programme. Two teenage book clubs are also set to be piloted in the coming months.
Find out more at downsyndrome.ie/library-clubs/
