Free ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative

Libraries Ireland is offering free My Little Library Book Bags to every child starting primary school in 2026, with collections available at libraries nationwide.

The initiative, delivered in partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under the First 5 Strategy, is designed to help children prepare for the transition to school.

Each bag includes two books, a library card and holder, and a range of supports for parents and children, including a copy of the Rufus Handwashing Storybook. The bags are available in English and Irish.

The programme also encourages families to engage with their local library, attend events, and continue borrowing books as children begin their school journey.

Local representative Senator Fiona O’Loughlin is encouraging families with children starting school in September to drop into their local library and pick up a bag over the summer. “It’s a great initiative and something that can really help children feel more settled and confident ahead of starting primary school," she says.

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Fresh push for pedestrian crossing at Nicholastown

The need for progress on a pedestrian crossing at Nicholastown is to come before the next Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, writes Brian Byrne. Cllr Tracey O’Dwyer has submitted a motion asking that the council schedule a Section 38 process for the installation of a crossing opposite the Nicholastown and Conroy Park estates, to facilitate pedestrian access to the community centre and the community walkway at the Field of Dreams.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1994, a Section 38 procedure allows a local authority to introduce traffic calming and minor road improvement measures where these are considered necessary in the interests of the safety and convenience of road users.

At the recent AGM of Kilcullen Community Action, Nicholastown resident Eoin Houlihan described the location as “lethal”, saying that cars and trucks are going at high speeds, especially in the morning. "It’s terrifying," he said. "It’s not safe — there are a lot of kids crossing.”

At that meeting, Cllr O'Dwyer said there had already been requests for action in the area. She said a crossing was warranted, and while there was a council commitment in principle to provide one and other traffic-calming measures, it's a matter of finding funding.

If passed, the motion would mark an important next step in moving the proposal into the formal statutory process required before works can proceed.

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Kilcullen GAA to host 'Smallies' cycling event

Kilcullen GAA’s Healthy Cubs Committee will host a Smallies Cycling Event on Saturday, May 16, following GAA academy training. The event is also open to the wider community.

The event will take place on the community walkway at 11.15am and is being held in support of National Bike Week. Young children and their families are invited to bring their bikes along for a few safe laps after the academy.

The event will begin at the clubhouse, R56 YX81, and aims to promote fun, fitness and safe cycling for local smallies.

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County Kildare Chamber to host e-commerce marketing talk

County Kildare Chamber will host a special guest presentation on 17th June about converting online interest into actual customers, writes Brian Byrne. The talk will be given by Ruth Murphy, Director of Elevate Marketing.

Turning Clicks Into Customers: A Smarter Approach to Growth will offer practical insights for service-based and e-commerce businesses on improving conversions, building stronger marketing foundations, and growing sustainably.

The event will also provide opportunities for networking, tea and coffee, and expert business insight. Members and non-members are welcome.

For more information, contact michael@countykildarechamber.ie.

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Have you lost your phone?

This phone was found on a seat in The Valley. The owner can retrieve it from An Tearmann. 

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Appreciation for Paddy's Congo service

Paddy Burke from Conroy Park was honoured recently with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his service in the Congo in 1963, writes Brian Byrne. His career also included further service in Cyprus and Lebanon. 

The certificate was awarded by the Irish United Nations Veterans Association to members of the Defence Forces who served in the Republic of the Congo between 1960 and 1964, during what was the first armed peace support mission undertaken by the Defence Forces.

The certificate cites the courage, fortitude, soldierly conduct, and sacrifices by personnel, which brought great credit to Ireland and the Defence Forces and contributed to the effective fulfilment of the United Nations Security Council mandates.

Issued in recognition of the dedicated service and contribution made during a complex and dangerous mission, in the cause of world peace.

Over the course of his military service, Paddy spent more than 41 years stationed at the Curragh.

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The Song Cycle coming to Kilcullen cinema

A reminder that the next film at Kilcullen Bridge Cinema on TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 12th, is a unique event of film, chat, and song, writes Teresa Nurse of Kilcullen Lions. The Song Cycle is a new film from Nick Kelly, acclaimed musician (The Fat Lady Sings) and filmmaker (The Drummer and the Keeper). 

It opened at the Irish Film Institute on May 1st to great reviews, and the film is now showing at selected cinemas across Ireland. Each event screening will involve Nick travelling sustainably to the location (primarily by bicycle) to attend the screening, and then performing live after the screening. The result will be a unique mini-touring programme incorporating cinema, music, and sustainability.

The Song Cycle is a charming documentary that tells Nick’s story of how, in 2022, he decided to cycle from his home in Dublin to the Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England — carrying his guitar, tent, and all the other essentials. He was accompanied by his friend and ‘Dogs’ collaborator, Sean Millar, who was following the same route on public transport. The pair stopped to perform in different venues along the route, making their way towards a grand finale at Glastonbury. 

The journey proves a celebration of sustainability in its many forms, while also allowing the filmmaker to thoughtfully reflect on his relationship with his late father, the esteemed politician and academic, John Kelly. Inspired by environmental concerns, the film also explores music and friendship and is uplifting, humorous, and thought-provoking. 

Come for the film and stay for the chat and music. It promises to be a wonderful event. Tickets are now on sale in Woodbine Books, Kilcullen, and on Eventbrite.

Doors open at 7pm. Film 7.30pm followed by a concert at 9pm. 

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The passing of Alan Sheridan

The death has occurred of Alan Sheridan, Avondale Drive, Kilcullen, on 9 May 2026, suddenly at his residence. Alan's passing is very deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents, Lynda and Philip, sisters Karen and Lisa, sons Jake, Jamie, Scott, and John, grandmother Madge, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours, and his many friends.

Funeral arrangements later.

Rest in peace.

Generous Pieta walk response

Photos and report by Healthy Clubs Committee.

From 4am on Saturday, 9 May, people gathered at Kilcullen GAA for the second Pieta House Darkness into Light event run by the Healthy Clubs Committee of Kilcullen GAA. Women, men, and children arrived, some individually, some in pairs, in family groups, and even with a few family dogs — but all with one purpose in mind: to reach out and to support those who feel they have little hope and those affected by suicide. 

Maurice O'Brien initiated proceedings, welcoming the crowd of approximately 150, and invited everyone to begin their walk at 4:30am on the Field of Dreams community walkway around Kilcullen GAA grounds. People began in silence to the orchestra of sound produced by the dawn chorus, but soon, the murmurings of voices joined birdsong as the Dawn Walk community proceeded on their way. 

A very welcome breakfast of sausage baps awaited the walkers at the finish, Maurice O'Brien acting as head chef and ably assisted by Joe Dooley. Raggy's Cafe provided tea and coffee, which helped dispel the chill! 

Thanks to the organisers of the event and volunteers who helped: Bróna Dooley, Maurice O'Brien, Emma Mc Larnon, Joe Dooley, Esther Reddy, and the staff of Raggy's Cafe, Jay, Olivia, and Francesca Lambert-Mills, and thanks to Kilcullen GAA for its support. 

Huge thanks to all who attended and donated to this special cause. A total of €1,320 was raised at the event and has been lodged for Pieta House.

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Listen: Thirty years of TY at CPC

 

Glenda Groome, Transition Year Coordinator at Cross and Passion College, Kilcullen, for the past 21 years, talks briefly about the impact of 30 years of the initiative at the school.

A rough and Ready Production by Brian Byrne for Kilcullen Diary.

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The passing of David Elliott

The death has occurred of David Elliott, Johnstown, Kilskyre, Kells, Meath, and formerly of Carnalway, Co Kildare, on 8 May 2026, peacefully after a short illness at Our Lady's Hospital, Navan. 

Predeceased by his loving wife Barbara, his baby son Aidan, and his brothers Billy and Walter, and cherished father of Mark, Sandra, Wayne, Suzanne, and Trevor, David will be sadly missed by his daughters-in-law Carol and Lorraine, his sons-in-law Doney and Rob, his adored grandchildren Conor, Naoise, Owen, Zak, Sinéad, Danny, Shannen, Shona, and Senen, his great-grandson Kray, his dear sisters May and Nora, his sister-in-law Mary, extended family, many friends, and neighbours.

Reposing at McEntee's Funeral Home, Kells, on Tuesday evening from 5 o'clock to 7 o'clock. Removal on Wednesday morning at 11 o'clock, arriving at Lakeland's Crematorium, Cavan, for a funeral service at 12 o'clock for family and close friends only please. 

Family flowers only and house private please.

Donations may be made to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind in memory of David Elliott.

Rest in peace.

Kildare Inclusivity Festival today

A reminder that the 2026 Kildare Inclusivity Festival is being held TODAY, Sunday, 10 May, at The Curragh Racecourse from 11am to 6pm, bringing together families, community groups and organisations for a day focused on disability inclusion, accessibility and celebration.

This year’s free family-friendly festival has a range of new features designed to make the event more welcoming for everyone. Among the additions for 2026 are a Vehicle Demonstration Zone, an external music stage and the KARE Inclusive Sports Zone. Returning attractions will include the Family Fun Zone, Barretstown Magic Moments and CKAN’s Our World Inclusive Toy Display.

The event, hosted by County Kildare Access Network (CKAN), Kildare County Council, and partners, will include a dedicated Quiet Zone, a Quiet Entrance, and a Quiet Hour from 11am to 12pm to support visitors who may benefit from a calmer environment.

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Pregnancy yoga class for Kilcullen

A Pregnancy Yoga class will begin on Saturday, 6 June, at the Mountain Flow Yoga Studio on Hillside, Kilcullen. This supportive 70-minute class with Kayleigh Herbert is designed for all stages of pregnancy after 14 weeks. 

Each session combines gentle movement, strength building, pelvic floor awareness, and calming breathwork to support your body through pregnancy, labour, and beyond.

More than just a yoga class, this is a space to slow down, connect with your growing baby, and feel supported throughout your journey into motherhood.

Kayleigh Herbert is a 310-hour trained yoga teacher with additional studies in pregnancy, women’s health, yoga, and tantra. Inspired by her own motherhood journey, she is passionate about creating nurturing and supportive spaces for women. 

Classes take place every Saturday at 10:30 am from 6 June. Booking is available through the LegitFit app. Simply download the app, search for Mountain Flow, and book your class there.

For any questions, please contact Beata on WhatsApp: 087 363 11154.

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Free workshop to help craft businesses build brands

A free marketing workshop aimed at craft makers, designers and creative business owners will take place in Naas on 9 June 9, writes Brian Byrne. Hosted by Local Enterprise Office Kildare, Focus on Craft & Creative – Building Your Brand and Telling Your Craft Story will run from 10am to 12.30pm at MERITS, Naas.

The interactive session is designed to help participants develop a strong brand identity and communicate their story more effectively to customers. Topics will include brand foundations, craft storytelling, visual identity and practical marketing tips.

The event is intended for those in the craft and creative sector who want to stand out in a competitive market.

Booking is available online at this link. 

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Learn about cancer research at NUI Maynooth

Image: NUI Maynooth.

People interested in learning more about cancer research will have the chance to step inside one of Ireland’s leading research institutes later this month, writes Brian Byrne. Maynooth University’s Kathleen Lonsdale Institute for Human Health Research will host a free public event, Step Inside Cancer Research in Ireland, on Thursday, 21 May 2026. 

The event will take place from 6pm to 8pm, with tea and coffee available from 5:30pm at the Bioscience and Electronic Engineering Building on North Campus, offering attendees an opportunity to learn more about the latest developments in cancer research and the work being carried out by scientists in Ireland.

The event is free to attend, but advance registration is required. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with only 100 spaces available.

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