Drop Everything And Read

The JCSP Demonstration Library Project, in collaboration with Poetry Ireland, invites the entire nation to take time out and to ‘Drop Everything and Read’ for 20 minutes at 12 noon on Friday April 29th.

The simple but very effective idea is to promote the importance of literacy and reading for pleasure by having as many people as possible read at the same time on the same day. Work will be put down and everyone will be encouraged to pick up a book, magazine, newspaper, e-book, audio book, etc. and to read quietly, or indeed be read to, for 20 minutes.

The main focus of this national DEAR challenge is to draw attention to the importance of reading for pleasure. If reading is to become a lifelong habit then young people must see themselves as participants in a community that views reading as a significant and enjoyable activity.

Video of Eoin Colfer promoting the initiative

More information


Did you know that your Internet Explorer is out of date

To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend that you upgrade to a newer version or other web browser.

Upgrade your browser now