This collection gathers outstanding examples of international books for and about young people with disabilities. We are delighted to bring to Ireland the 2017 edition, which contains 50 titles in over 20 languages and includes specialised formats such as Braille, PCS and Sign Language and tactile and textile books. The books are for all ages and include titles from Turkey, Japan, Sweden, Ireland and beyond.

The exhibition will visit DCU Cregan Library, Drumcondra Campus in from January 29 and into early February, and will be formally launched by Liz Page, Executive Director of IBBY International, on Friday 2nd February at 6.30pm to coincide with IBBY Ireland’s Annual Lecture (have you booked your ticket to this free event on our Eventbrite page yet?). It will subsequently welcome visitors in various venues on the island of Ireland between February and April, from Belfast to Wexford via South Dublin. All details TBA soon!
Each leg of the exhibition will also include hands-on activities from story time to illustration and writing workshops facilitated by local librarians and writers and illustrators such as Children’s Laureate PJ Lynch and more to be announced.

The exhibition is free and open to all!

Wally De Doncker is an acclaimed children’s writer from Belgium and the current president of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY International). De Doncker trained as a teacher and served as a special teacher of children’s literature. He began writing full-time in 2001 and since then his books have reached readers in more than thirteen countries worldwide.
De Doncker is a frequent contributor to publications that deal with the international dimension of children’s literature, and is a regular guest in libraries, schools and other settings where children and adults come to enjoy his readings.
De Doncker is particularly passionate about fighting children’s illiteracy all over the world and helping provide true access to books and reading for all. “Literacy is a human right, a tool of personal empowerment and a means for social and human development. Educational opportunities depend on literacy. Literacy is at the heart of basic education for all, and essential for eradicating poverty, reducing child mortality, curbing population growth, achieving gender equality and ensuring sustainable development, peace and democracy. There are good reasons why literacy is at the core of Education for All.”

Wally will be introduced by Laureate na nÓg and IBBY Ireland Patron P.J. Lynch. The lecture will coincide with the formal launch of The IBBY Collection for Young People with Disabilities by IBBY International Executive Director Liz Page. Watch this space for more info on the exhibition!