More Than Just Luck: St. Patrick’s Day

Published by Library Staff on

Get ready to go green! While March 17th is often associated with parades and shamrocks, St. Patrick’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to dive into the rich history, folklore, and literature of the Emerald Isle.

At the library, we’re trading “pot of gold” hunts for a treasure trove of information. Whether you have Irish roots or just a love for a good story, we have something for everyone.


The Man Behind the Myth

Did you know that St. Patrick wasn’t actually Irish? Born in Roman Britain, his life story is one of incredible resilience and transformation. Beyond the legends of chasing snakes out of Ireland, his actual history is a fascinating look at the early medieval world.

If you’re a history buff, search the NERL catalog for “The Confession of Saint Patrick” or general biographies to separate the man from the myth.

Explore Your “Scots-Irish” Roots

Many families in our region have ancestral ties to Ireland and Scotland. If you’ve ever wondered about your family tree, St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to start your genealogy journey!

  • Ancestry Library Edition: Visit us in person to use our pro tools for free.

  • Heritage Books: We have a dedicated section for regional and family histories that can help you trace your lineage back across the Atlantic.

A Literary Giant

Ireland has produced some of the world’s greatest writers. This month, why not skip the thrillers and pick up a masterpiece from an Irish icon?

  • For the Poets: Explore the mystical works of W.B. Yeats.

  • For the Bold: Dive into the wit of Oscar Wilde or the complexity of James Joyce.

  • For Modern Readers: Check out contemporary favorites like Sally Rooney or Tana French.


Irish Flavors (Beyond Corned Beef)

Looking to skip the green food coloring this year? Our cookbook collection (641.5) features authentic Irish cuisine that goes far beyond the basics. Look for recipes for:

  • Traditional Soda Bread (No yeast required!)

  • Colcannon (The ultimate comfort food of potatoes and cabbage)

  • Irish Stew (Perfect for those lingering chilly March evenings)

For the “Little Leprechauns”

Our children’s wing is currently stocked with tales of Irish folklore, from the mischievous Púca to the legendary Giant’s Causeway. It’s a great way to introduce kids to world cultures through storytelling and vibrant illustrations.


Staff Tip: If you can’t make it into a branch, remember that our Libby app has hundreds of Irish audiobooks—perfect for listening to while you wear your favorite green sweater!

Categories: Blog