The initiative means schools throughout Cork can borrow the full Global Goals Book Club collection directly from their local library
Cork County Library and Arts Service has officially launched the Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club at Bandon Library, marking an exciting new chapter in promoting sustainability, literacy and global citizenship for young learners across the county.
The initiative was launched at an event with 5th Class students from Gaelscoil Dhroichead na Banndan, who celebrated and explored the collection firsthand.
The Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club is a growing collection of children’s books designed to help students understand the world around them through story. Each title is linked to one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and is supported by child-friendly worksheets and activities that encourage empathy, critical thinking, creativity and real-world understanding.

Present at the launch were Cllr. Marie O’Sullivan, deputising for the Mayor of the County of Cork; Elizabeth Desmond, Senior Executive Librarian; Siobhán Hughes, Green Schools along with teachers and staff of Cork County Library. Pic: Brian Lougheed
Now launching across all 29 Cork County service points, the initiative, delivered in partnership with Cork County Council and Green-Schools, means schools throughout Cork can borrow the full Global Goals Book Club collection directly from their local library. Each book includes a QR code linking to the Green-Schools website, where teachers and students can access carefully curated resources and activities connected to each title.
The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley, said, “The Green-Schools Global Goals Book Club is a fantastic new resource that brings sustainability and storytelling together for young learners across Cork. By linking each book to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, this initiative helps children understand the world around them in a meaningful and engaging way. I would encourage schools and families to contact their local Cork County Library to explore the collection and discover the wonderful learning opportunities it offers.”
The Global Goals Book Club is suitable for both junior and senior primary classes, helping to turn reading into meaningful learning experiences while supporting schools in their Green-Schools work and wider curriculum learning.
Schools interested in borrowing the collection are encouraged to contact their local Cork County Library.
