Cork County Council Library and Arts Service Seek Stories for Reminiscing

Come Sit A While Book

Cork County Council Library and Arts Service is inviting writers to submit short stories for the second volume of ‘Come Sit Awhile’, a unique compilation designed for people with dementia and their carers.

Following the success of the first volume, this latest edition will again offer simple uplifting stories that are easy to follow and encourage reminiscing.

The top three stories, along with a shortlist of additional stories will be included in the collection of dementia-friendly readings which will be published as part of the Library and Arts Service Age Friendly programme. Copies of the book will be available to borrow from branch and mobile libraries across County Cork later this year.

There are currently 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland and this number is expected to reach by 150,000 by 2045. 63% of those living with dementia live in the community and want to be active and included in daily life as much as possible.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Joe Carroll said, 

Our libraries are well placed at the heart of our communities to help provide access to information for those suffering with dementia and their carers. Research shows that reading poems and short stories as well as reminiscing can offer comfort and joy to those with dementia. The first volume of ‘Come Sit Awhile’ was very well received by those in the community, carers and medical professionals. I have no doubt that this next edition will be just as special and successful.

Cork County Council Library and Arts Service has a wide and varied Age Friendly Programme throughout its branches and mobile libraries. Groups meet on a regular basis for tea and chats, talks and workshops.

Submissions should be no longer than 800 words and easy to follow, with a beginning, middle and an end. Stories that evoke positive memories and support reminiscing are particularly welcome.

Entries must be accompanied by an entry form, which is available from your local library or by emailing [email protected]. 

Submissions should be posted to Cork County Library, Carrigrohane Road, Cork T12K335 or emailed to [email protected] before the closing date of the 28th of March 2025.