Charlestown Library Celebrates Irish History with Free Events

Lectures, music, and more honor St. Patrick and St. Brigid

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Friends of the Charlestown Branch Library are hosting two free events in March to celebrate Irish history, literature, and music. The series begins on March 5 with an illustrated lecture by Professor Richard Kearney on St. Patrick and St. Brigid, followed by a vocal recital on March 14 featuring acclaimed tenor Joshua Collier performing beloved Irish ballads.

Why it matters

These events reflect the Friends of the Charlestown Branch Library's longstanding commitment to supporting the library and its community by providing cultural programming that celebrates the diverse heritage of local residents. The events also aim to humanize and illuminate the historical and spiritual contributions of important Irish figures like St. Patrick and St. Brigid.

The details

The March 5 lecture by Professor Richard Kearney will take place at the Charlestown Branch Library and include a book signing and reception. The March 14 vocal recital by Joshua Collier will be held at St. John's Church in Charlestown and feature a program of Irish ballads and Tin Pan Alley favorites associated with the legendary Irish tenor John McCormack.

  • The lecture series begins on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
  • The vocal recital is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

The players

Richard Kearney

An Irish philosopher and public intellectual who is the Charles Seelig Professor in Philosophy at Boston College. He has taught at several universities and is the author of 27 books on European philosophy and literature.

Joshua Collier

An acclaimed tenor whose voice has been described as "brimming with passion and sensuality." He is a graduate of the North Carolina School of the Arts and the New England Conservatory, and is the founder and Artistic Director of Barn Opera in Vermont.

Friends of the Charlestown Branch Library

A group that has supported the Charlestown Branch Library since 1953 by funding books, equipment, restoration projects, and community programs not covered by the city budget.

St. Patrick

The patron saint and national apostle of Ireland who brought Christianity and literacy to the Irish people in the 5th century.

St. Brigid

One of Ireland's three patron saints, known as the patroness of poets, creativity, and learning, as well as healers, blacksmiths, and dairy production.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These events celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Ireland and the lasting impact of important Irish figures like St. Patrick and St. Brigid, while also showcasing the Charlestown Branch Library's commitment to providing the community with engaging educational and artistic programming.