Cork school opens Seán Ó Sé Library in memory of past prinicpal

St Mary’s On the Hill school has officially opened its new library, named “Leabharlann Seán Ó Sé” after a past principal who recently passed away.

Therese Prendeville, who is responsible for literacy in the school, started gutting out an old computer room in the school to use as a library last summer, with Children’s Books Ireland sponsoring 500 books.

The Saibhriú project, which runs a programme for exceptionally gifted learners at the school, with teacher Brigid Murphy, also got involved, giving the school funding of €2,000 to allow it to furnish the room.

They decided to name the new library after the school’s former principal Sean Ó Sé, who was a regular visitor to the school, and his daughter Áine attended the event, where a plaque was unveiled.

Seán was a renowned Irish traditional music singer and along with Séan Ó Riada's Ceoltóirí Chualann was a pivotal figure in traditional Irish music. Best known for his hit "An Poc ar Buile" he was famous for his storytelling and dedication to the Irish language.

Local group The Kabin also joined in the celebrations, with pupil Rio Corriea writing a rap for the event, supported by Gary McCarthy and Aaron Hennessy.

The guest of honor was Emma Larkin, a children’s book author, who has been working with the students for the last two years to promote a love of reading.

Ms Prendeville said: “It started with gutting the room, and things just kept getting added, it all happened organically.” 

She added that the event itself was beautiful, and quite emotional for Seán’s daughter, Áine. 

"The students sung An Poc ar Buile after the plaque was unveiled, and Áine gave an impromptu speech.” 

Ms Prendeville thanked school principal Máire Fennessy as well as SNA Trish Williams, who helped her to decorate the library, saying: “She was phenomenal, she gave hours to the project. The two of us were there every Saturday doing building and logging the books.”