Limerick City and County Council has officially launched a new Community Engagement Initiative in association with Limerick Libraries, designed to help young learners across the city and county discover the joy of reading and strengthen their connection to the place they call home.
At the heart of the initiative is Val the Viking - a friendly and curious character inspired by Limerick’s rich Viking heritage. Created by the Council’s Marketing and Communications Department, Val’s story begins when he and his crew arrive in Limerick around 922 AD before stumbling upon a magical portal that transports him to modern-day Limerick. Through Val’s adventures, children are invited to explore the city and county, learning about its history, energy, and imagination along the way.
The launch event took place at Limerick City Library, where children from Scoil Íosagáin CBS, enjoyed interactive reading sessions, colouring activities, and the first look at the new Val the Viking Packs.
Each pack includes a Discover Limerick activity book, a Val the Viking badge, Val the Viking sticker, a pack of crayons, and a bookmark that helps young readers to discover their Viking name as they set out on their own adventure through books, stories, and imagination.
Library cards will be provided to children as they collect their activity packs from their local branch.
Deputising for Mayor of Limerick at the launch, Cllr Sharon Benson, said:
“Through this initiative, we’re helping children to discover not only the joy of reading but also the pride that comes from belonging to a place with such a rich story to tell. Our libraries are at the heart of our communities, and this collaboration shows how storytelling can connect generations and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Val the Viking is a wonderful way to bring Limerick’s unique heritage to life for our youngest residents.”
Donn O’Sullivan, Head of the Marketing and Communications Department at Limerick City and County Council, added:
“Val the Viking represents curiosity, exploration, and imagination. We wanted to create a character that children could connect with, one who invites them to see their surroundings through a sense of wonder. By working with Limerick Libraries, we’re bringing Val to life in a way that makes reading, learning, and local discovery accessible and fun for all.”
Brenda Frawley, Senior Executive Officer, Limerick Libraries, said:
“Limerick Libraries are proud to be part of this exciting new initiative. Val the Viking gives us a creative way to introduce children to reading and to the stories of their community. Each Val pack is an invitation for children to step into the world of books, imagination, and discovery.”
The Val the Viking Packs are now available for collection at all Limerick Library branches (subject to availability). Families are encouraged to visit their local library, register for membership, and join in celebrating Little Learners across Limerick.
For more information visit Limerick.ie/Val.
Find details about your local library’s services and opening hours at Limerick.ie.
