Each July, the charming seaside town of Bantry on Ireland’s south coast transforms into a haven for readers, writers and literary lovers from near and far. The West Cork Literary Festival, now in its 27th year, is more than a celebration of books — it’s a community-wide embrace of the written and spoken word. At its helm is festival director Eimear O’ Herlihy, whose passion, dedication and vast knowledge of literature drive the festival’s continued growth and respected status.

“I grew up in Cork City, with a mum from the city and a dad from the county, which is where my love of West Cork comes from,” O’ Herlihy explains. “Most importantly, both of my parents were very keen readers, and they instilled a passion for books in me from an early age.”

That early passion matured into a career that bridges the literary and event-planning spheres. Before taking the festival’s reins, O’Herlihy had already worked in event management for more than two decades. “I was attending the West Cork Literary Festival as an audience member for years,” she recalls. “I was tempted to participate by the big names and became hooked on new authors I discovered. So when the chance came to join the team, I jumped at it.”

Now in her 11th year of programming the event, she’s built a rich and diverse week-long celebration that attracts some of the most compelling voices in literature while keeping a door open for new talent. “Our three-day writing workshops are a core part of our existence,” she emphasizes, “a unique opportunity for new writers to begin or continue their writing journey.”

Yet the work behind the magic is, as she puts it, “90 per cent spreadsheets and emailing.” From booking authors and co-ordinating logistics to reimagining Bantry’s cafés, bookshops, bars and even garden centres into event venues, O’Herlihy and her small team handle it all. “Preparation and attention to detail are key. I have a rolling spreadsheet of ideas and am always planning next year’s festival before this year’s one even happens.”

Although Bantry’s lack of a dedicated cultural venue presents some challenges, the limitation has inspired creative improvisation and a communal spirit. “It’s great fun putting on a festival in a small town,” she notes, “but also challenging, because the majority of our authors and audiences need transport and accommodation.” To that end, the festival’s parent company, West Cork Music, is fundraising for a world-class music and arts centre – a project that would be transformative for the region.

Still, the rewards outweigh the hurdles. “Just hearing incredible writers reading their stories aloud, watching happy audience members chatting after events, and seeing how bright and busy all of Bantry is during the festival week makes it all worthwhile.”

And the rewards aren’t just cultural; they’re economic and social too. “Our festivals have a positive economic impact on the town and surrounding areas,” O’Herlihy explains. “We support local authors and program-emerging talent from County Cork, and offer a wide range of professional development opportunities.”

The 2025 festival, running until July 18, is hosting 94 events and more than 100 authors, illustrators and translators. Attendees can expect a mix of readings, seminars and family-friendly activities, along with inviting experiences like boat trips to Whiddy Island, communal sea swims, historic walking tours and even yoga on the lawn of Bantry House.

Accessibility is a core value for the event. “We work hard to ensure the festival is open to everyone,” says O’Herlihy. “We provide wheelchair-accessible venues, free events, support for the deaf and hard of hearing, and dementia-friendly programming. We also train our staff in inclusive practices.”

O’ Herlihy is also passionate about nurturing young readers. “I really believe young people are still interested in literature,” she insists. “My nieces and nephews love their devices, sure, but they also love reading. I’m a firm believer that people should read whatever, wherever and however they like. Comic books, audiobooks, zines, graphic novels – there are no guilty pleasures.”

Her ultimate vision for the future of the West Cork Literary Festival includes continued expansion, not just in size, but in relevance and depth. “It’s vital that writers feel supported – financially, creatively and personally. I want the festival to remain meaningful for both writers and readers.”

Balancing plans for the future with a focus firmly rooted in the present, O’Herlihy muses, “Who knows what the future will bring? For now, I’m very happy working on it. It is one of the most significant and well-regarded literary festivals in Ireland and one that is equally important to writers and audiences.”

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