Libraries NI Latest Service Updates
DIGITAL LIBRARY SERVICE CHANGES
Libraries NI’s digital library service will no longer be available through the Borrow Box app after 31 January 2026 at 11:59pm.
From 1 February 2026, Libraries NI’s digital library will be available through the Libby app only, bringing eBooks, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers and eMagazines together in one place.
What this means for you:
• If you use Libby, nothing changes — you can continue reading and listening as normal
• If you use BorrowBox, current loans or reservations may end when the app closes
If you have items borrowed through BorrowBox, you may wish to finish them before 31 January.
Getting started
Watch our short online video, which shows how to download Libby and start reading or listening. If you’d rather speak to someone in person, staff in your local library can help when you visit.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the following notices.
UPDATES RELATING TO LIBRARIES INCLUDING TEMPORARY AND EXCEPTIONAL CLOSURE DATES:
- Rathcoole Library will close at the earlier time of 5:00pm (not the usual time of 5:15pm) on Wednesday 18 February.
Temporary Closure of Rathcoole Library for Refurbishment Work
Due to refurbishment work, Rathcoole Library will be closed on Thursday 26 February for a period of approximately three weeks.
During this temporary closure, customers can visit any public library.
The closest libraries include:
Glengormley Library, 40 Carnmoney Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 6HP
t: 028 9083 3797
e: glengormley.library@librariesni.org.uk
Cloughfern Library, 2A Kings Crescent, Newtownabbey, BT37 0DH
t: 028 9085 4789
e: cloughfern.library@librariesni.org.uk
The planned refurbishment will bring a fresh new look to the library, including new floor coverings throughout, redecoration in key areas, a reconfigured internal layout and the replacement of furniture to create a more modern, comfortable space for the local community to enjoy.
During the library closure, items can be renewed online with your library membership card and PIN number which is available from library staff. eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines can also be borrowed through our online library.
Temporary Closure of Randalstown Library for Building Maintenance Works
Due to building maintenance works, Randalstown Library will be closed on Tuesday 17 February for a period of approximately three weeks.
During this temporary closure, customers can visit any public library.
The closest libraries include:
Antrim Library, 10 Railway Street, Antrim, BT41 4AE
t: 028 9446 1942 e: antrim.library@librariesni.org.uk
Greystone Library, Greystone Road, Antrim, BT41 1JW
t: 028 9446 3891 e: greystone.library@librariesni.org.uk
We apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused and please note, book loan periods have been extended to cover the closure, items can be renewed online with your library membership card and PIN number which is available from library staff. eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers can also be borrowed through our online library. Keep an eye on our social media for further updates.
Belfast Central Library Service Update
Belfast Central Library is operating a reduced service from the ground floor while repair work continues in other areas of the building. The NI Writers’ Room and the Heritage Department will reopen on Wednesday 11 February with full access and standard opening hours.
We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding. Further updates will be shared as services return to normal.
- Ballyclare Library's lift is currently out of service, stairs are available but anyone who cannot navigate these should attend the closest alternative library in Glengormley. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
- Newtownstewart Library car park entrance is currently out of service due to essential maintenance, access is only available via the entrance on Main Street.
UPDATES RELATING TO OUT OF HOURS SERVICE:
N/A
UPDATES RELATING TO MOBILE LIBRARIES:
- Armagh and Craigavon Mobile Library is temporarily unavailable due to essential vehicle maintenance.
- Tyrone Mobile Library is temporarily unavailable due to essential vehicle maintenance.
- Cross Border Mobile Library will be unavailable from Monday 16 February until Friday 20 February inclusive.
- Fermanagh Mobile Library will be unavailable on Wednesday 18 February.
- Dungannon Mobile Library is temporarily unavailable.
UPDATES RELATING TO HOMECALL SERVICE:
N/A
