Ahead of Ireland Reads Day on 22 February, here are a few ways to find that unique ‘flow state’ of getting lost in a book
Get a library card
When was the last time you were at your local library – and not just with your children? If it’s been too long, take an hour some day to reacquaint yourself with this incredible service that is available to us all. Browse the various categories, the ones you love and the ones you never really think to look at in a regular store. This is where you can try out something different for free. If you don’t like it, you can just return it for something more in your wheelhouse.
Use Borrowbox
Another reason to sign up to your local library is to gain access to Borrowbox – a fantastic resource for e-books and audiobooks that you can borrow (like a library book) for up to 25 days. All you have to do is download the app and start scrolling through the thousands of titles on offer. You may have to wait a few weeks for some, but you can also reserve them and create a reading list so you don’t lose track of what you want to read next.
Shop local
As the cost of living continues to rise, local and independent book shops are constantly having to compete with huge online companies and chain stores for sales. It’s a difficult industry to be in so if you’re planning to buy a book, visit a bricks-and-mortar one in your area (or buy online from them) and ask the owners or staff for their recommendations. We all should do what we can to keep them around for as long as possible.
Invest in a Kindle
Even if you prefer the feel of a physical book, you can’t deny the perks of an e-reader. As well as being light and small enough to fit in your handbag, you can purchase your favourite book online and see it appear in your reading list within seconds! It’s ideal for holidays abroad when packing space is an issue and there’s even a handy page turning tool available now for people with limited mobility or if you just want to keep your hands cosy under a blanket as you read.
Read on Spotify
Move over music and podcasts, Spotify is now becoming a treasure trove of audiobooks for its subscribers. Whether you have Premium or the Free version, there are over 375,000 books for you to discover on the Spotify Web Player. All you have to do is download the one you want and then listen it on any device.
Find a book café
We know you can bring your book to any café and read while you sip your coffee. However, there’s something special about being surrounded by books and/or reading enthusiasts as you enjoy your beverage. Or better yet, don’t bring a book and choose from a selection of books you might never otherwise have looked at instead. There are plenty of book cafés around the country but here are a few recommendations to get you started:
The Book & Coffee Shop, Kilkenny city
The Book Café and Bistro, Gorey, Co Wexford
Prim’s Book Shop, Kinsale, Co Cork
Find out more about Ireland Reads Day here.
