Fingal Launches Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club at Newly Opened Donabate Library

Fingal County Council has officially launched the Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club at the newly opened Donabate Library, marking a major step in promoting sustainability and global citizenship among young learners. Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Tom O’Leary, joined students from Gael Scoil Na Mara to celebrate this exciting initiative.

The Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club is a growing collection of children’s books designed to help students explore global citizenship, sustainability, and the world around them through story. Each title is linked to one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and supported by child-friendly worksheets and activities that build empathy, critical thinking, and real-world understanding.

Launching across Fingal’s ten libraries this January, the initiative led by Fingal County Council’s Environmental Awareness Officer and supported by the Libraries Department means schools throughout the county can borrow the full book club collection directly from their local library. Each book includes a QR code linking to the Green-Schools website, where teachers and students will find carefully created resources and activities aligned with the Global Goals.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Tom O’Leary, said:
"The transformation of Ballisk House into this vibrant library space is a fantastic achievement for the community. Today’s launch of the Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club adds another layer of learning and creativity, inspiring our young people to become thoughtful changemakers who understand that even small actions can make a big difference."

Director of Environment, David Storey, added:
"This initiative is about making global learning accessible and engaging. By connecting stories to the Global Goals, we’re helping children see how everyday actions link to global challenges, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment."

County Librarian Betty Boardman, emphasised:

"Our libraries are at the heart of the community, and this initiative makes global learning accessible to every classroom. By linking stories to the Global Goals, we’re helping children understand the world around them and empowering them to take positive action."

The book club is designed for both junior and senior primary classes, turning reading into meaningful learning experiences. It encourages students to think critically about issues like climate action, equality, and sustainability, and to take positive steps in their own lives.

To find out how to borrow the books for your school, visit: Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club | Fingal County Council

For more information on the Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club and to access resources, visit:
www.greenschoolsireland.org/the-programme/projects/global-goals-book-club/