As part of Culture Night 2025, Read Mór will see  30 books by Irish and Irish-based authors gifted to young people across through Ireland through a new partnership with Jigsaw: The National Centre for Youth Mental Health.

Now in its fourth year, Read Mór was created to extend the spirit of Culture Night to those who may be unable to attend in-person events. The initiative champions Irish writing while recognising the proven benefits of reading for mental health, emotional wellbeing, and social connection.

This year, Read Mór events will take place in selected Jigsaw centres nationwide on Culture Night, giving young people across the country the opportunity to connect, explore books, and celebrate reading in a welcoming environment.

Maura McGrath, Chair of the Arts Council, said:

“With Read Mór, we’re not only celebrating Irish literature—we’re also promoting inclusion, connection, and creativity. Reading has well-documented benefits for mental health, and this year’s partnership with Jigsaw allows us to reach more young people and highlight the important role that arts and culture can play in supporting emotional wellbeing.”

Edel Connolly, a Youth Advocate with Jigsaw, said:

“It’s fantastic having young people involved with Read Mór this year. As a young person, I think it’s so important to encourage other young people to pick up reading as a hobby for their mental wellbeing. Reading is such an amazing way to get lost in a fictional world where your worries don’t exist and to inspire young people to express themselves in a healthy and creative way.”

Dr. Joseph Duffy, CEO at Jigsaw said:

“Everyone at Jigsaw is really excited to partner with the Arts Council for Read Mór 2025. So many elements of Read Mór reflect our work with young people in our 14 youth mental health services across Ireland; connection, learning, imagination and more. Any initiative that seeks to promote reading is therefore hugely important in promoting overall wellbeing among our young people, and we are delighted to involved.”

About Jigsaw

Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health is a leading Irish charity dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people aged 12–25.

Jigsaw offers free, confidential mental health support services across Ireland, as well as expert advice, resources, and community-based initiatives. Through partnerships, advocacy, and evidence-based programmes, Jigsaw works to ensure that every young person in Ireland has access to the mental health support they need.