One Limerick, One Book, a new initiative from Limerick Libraries supported by Creative Ireland, is inviting people across the city and county to read, discuss and share the same book. Based on the successful One County, One Book model, the programme aims to connect communities through a shared reading experience.
The thriller novel Tell the Truth by Limerick author Karen Fitzgibbon has been selected as the inaugural title for the initiative.
A team of senior Limerick librarians considered a range of recently published titles before selecting Tell the Truth, which is written by a local author and set in contemporary Limerick with settings familiar to readers.
The selection process focused on identifying a title that would appeal to a broad readership while also reflecting a strong local connection.
The selection criteria included:
- A strong connection to Limerick through the author, setting or subject matter.
- Broad appeal to both general readers and book clubs.
- Availability of sufficient copies to support a county-wide reading programme.
- Availability of the author to participate in related events and activities.
- Potential to generate discussion and engagement among readers.
Tell the Truth stood out for its contemporary Limerick setting and compelling mystery-thriller storyline.
The choice aligns with national reading trends. Research commissioned by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) found that crime and thriller novels are the most popular fiction genre among Irish adults, with 50% of respondents identifying them as a preferred genre.
The novel's spring 2026 publication date also ensured adequate availability of copies for libraries throughout Limerick. Copies were acquired through the public library book supply framework and are available at libraries across Limerick.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran commented:
“Much of what we read and watch now is tailored by algorithms built around our own habits. Increasingly, people can live side by side while experiencing completely different worlds. One Limerick One Book offers something different, a story that people across the county can discover together. Tell the Truth is set in a Limerick readers will recognise. It is the kind of book that sparks conversation, debate and discussion. I encourage people to borrow a copy from their local library and become part of this shared reading experience.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Cllr. Tom Ruddle added:
“Reading has a unique ability to bring people together, and One Limerick, One Book is a fantastic opportunity for communities across Limerick to connect through a shared story. By selecting a novel written by a Limerick author and set here in our city, we are celebrating local creativity while promoting the many benefits of reading. I look forward to seeing discussions, book clubs and conversations develop around this exciting new initiative.”
Author Karen Fitzgibbon expressed her excitement to be part of the reading scheme, saying:
“It’s a real honour to have my novel included in this wonderful initiative, and I’m so excited to see Tell the Truth connect with Limerick readers. A strong sense of place is incredibly important to me when I’m writing, and Tell the Truth is very much a Limerick story. This psychological thriller is set in the city, with the characters exploring many well-known local establishments and landmarks. I hope this brings an added sense of familiarity and connection for readers who know and love Limerick, while also giving those who don’t know the city a glimpse into its character, atmosphere and charm.”
Director General at Limerick City and County Council, Dr. Pat Daly says:
“One Limerick One Book is about creating a shared reading experience that connects people across the city and county through the power of storytelling. In selecting Tell the Truth, we wanted a book that would resonate with a wide range of readers while also showcasing local literary talent. Karen Fitzgibbon’s novel stood out not only because it is a gripping and engaging thriller, but because it is rooted in contemporary Limerick. We hope this initiative will encourage new conversations, inspire participation in book clubs and library events, and introduce even more people to the many services available through Limerick Libraries.”
About One County, One Book
One County, One Book is a community reading initiative that brings people together through the shared experience of reading and discussing the same book. The programme promotes literacy, encourages a love of reading and fosters community connections through author talks, book club discussions, library events and other activities centred around a selected title.
Supported by the Creative Ireland Programme, the concept has been successfully delivered by public library services in a number of local authority areas across Ireland and is now being introduced in Limerick as One Limerick One Book, creating a shared reading experience for readers throughout the city and county.
Image Caption (L-R): Sean Lenihan, Director of Services, LCCC, Julie McLoughlin, Executive Librarian, Cllr Joe Pond, Cathaoirleach of the Metropolitan District of Limerick, author Karen Fitzgibbon, Cllr Tom Ruddle, Príomh Chomhairleoir, Brenda Frawley, Senior Executive Librarian and Damien Brady. LCCC Libraries