The Embassy of Ireland, Indonesia is thrilled to promote literacy by celebrating Bloomsday 2024, a literary extravaganza that took place on 16 June from 9am to 12pm in Jakarta! This year, the Embassy embarked on a captivating literary journey in collaboration with Silent Book Club Jakarta – Baca Bareng, Integrasi Transit Jakarta (PT ITJ), Taman Literasi Martha Christina Tiahahu (Literacy Park), Bookhive Indonesia, and MRT Jakarta, which is Jakarta’s underground metro line. The event was cost free and participants were asked to bring their own MRT card.
Our journey began at 09.00 at Lebak Bulus MRT Station and ended at Blok M Station, where we immersed ourselves in the enchanting world of James Joyce’s works through silent reading sessions onboard the MRT tram cars. We provided James Joyce’s works and invited participants to donate books to Bookhive Indonesia, a collective free library initiative that aims to promote literacy and reading in Indonesia.
We then walked to Taman Literasi Martha Christina Tiahahu, where we introduced the Irish Reading Corner in the library, showcasing Ireland’s diverse literary heritage. This special corner, unveiled by the Ambassador of Ireland, Pádraig Francis, in April 2024, serves as a cultural hub where enthusiasts can explore Irish literature.
This literary journey ended with ‘Blind Dates with Irish Writers’ Books’, inviting participants to discover new literary adventures by delving into Irish authors’ works. This interactive event encouraged meaningful connections and fostered a deeper appreciation for Irish literature.
Bloomsday 2024 in Jakarta was a resounding success, uniting book lovers and literary enthusiasts alike to celebrate the enduring legacy of James Joyce and Ireland’s vibrant literary culture. Thank you for joining us in this journey to ignite and nurture a passion for literature in Jakarta.
