By Alison Tolongui
Balancing lectures, part-time work and social life is tough for Dublin students , yet reading is carving a place amid the digital noise.
Student Life in Dublin
Luke Fay, 22, studies history and philosophy at Trinity College. He describes student life in Dublin as “challenging… balancing studies, work, exercise and social life.” “Grants are scarce and renting is expensive”, he adds, making it hard to focus solely on academics. But Dublin also offers a vibrant social scene, with bars, clubs and recreational facilities drawing young people out of their study routines.
Reading Beyond Coursework
Despite pressures, Luke prioritises reading daily. He alternates between historical texts and fiction: “It’s nice to have a contrast between fact and fantasy. Having a physical book in your hand is a good break from doomscrolling, and it’s easier to take notes and track your thinking.” Eurostat context: Across the EU, 60.1% of people aged 16–29 read at least one book in the past year, higher than any older age group. Sources like eBooks and PDFs are popular, but many students still value physical books and dedicated reading time (Eurostat).
Libraries as Student Hubs
Gillian Colton, Divisional Librarian at Dublin City Central Library, highlights the role of libraries in supporting student readers. Study pods were used over 3,000 times in 2025, providing quiet, private spaces for focused work. BorrowBox, the library’s digital lending service, offers eBooks, audiobooks and magazines, bridging the gap between screen and page. “People use the library for reading, studying and catching up on current affairs,” Gillian says. Book clubs and themed talks also attract engaged communities.
Cinema Book Clubs: A Different Kind of Reading
For students craving discussion and community, cinema book clubs offer a fresh twist. At Light House Cinema, the Cinema Book Club blends literature and film. Co-founder Charlene Lydon explains: “Participants read a source text, novels, short stories, or even Twitter threads then watch its adaptation and join a discussion. Experiencing cinema together changes how you feel: a laugh, a tear, a scream shared with others is a powerful human connection.”
Charlene emphasises the importance of shared experiences: “You can rant online, but it’s not the same as meaningful conversation with your community. Students bring thoughtful perspectives that enrich discussions.”
Why Reading Matters
For Luke, reading fuels creativity and imagination, offering a counterbalance to screen time. He draws inspiration from philosophers such as Plato, Marcus Aurelius and Miyamoto Musashi. Beyond academics, reading complements exploration: “Find your passion, join a society, try something new, or take a different route to college, college isn’t just about studying. It’s about social experiences, making friends, and discovering what you love.”
Conclusion
From library pods to cinema book clubs, Dublin students are proving that reading is far from obsolete. Even in a screen-heavy age, books remain a space for learning, reflection, and community , a pause from scrolling and a chance to explore worlds beyond the page.