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:
Ballycastle Library is Reopening on Monday 2 February
Ballycastle Library is delighted to welcome the community back through its doors at 10:00am on Monday 2 February, following an extensive refurbishment that has transformed the building into a brighter, more welcoming space for everyone to enjoy. Click here to read the full details
Temporary Closure of Belfast Central Library
Belfast Central Library remains temporarily closed following the very heavy rainfall associated with Storm Chandra on Tuesday 27 January. This has resulted in storm-related water ingress which caused damage to parts of the building, and it is important both for colleagues and customer safety that this is fully assessed.
As a precautionary measure, the library will remain closed while inspections and assessments continue.
It is important to note that key collections in the building such as the Fine Book Room and the Heritage Collections have not been affected.
Libraries NI Chief Executive Jim O’Hagan said: “Our priority is the safety of our customers and colleagues. Following the heavy rainfall, we took the decision to close Belfast Central Library while we fully assess the situation and carry out the necessary checks.
“We understand the importance of Belfast Central Library to the City, and we apologise for the disruption this closure may cause. We are working closely with our colleagues and contractors and will provide a further update as soon as we are in a position to do so. We appreciate the patience and understanding of customers during this time.”
Customers are advised that library services continue to be available in other libraries across Belfast, and online at librariesni.org.uk.
Further updates will be shared on Libraries NI social media and website.
- Newtownstewart Library car park entrance is currently out of service due to essential maintenance, access is only available via the entrance on Main Street.
- Falls Road Library will be closed from Wednesday 11 February until Friday 13 February inclusive to allow for essential upgrades. Alternative libraries include Shankill Road and Belfast Central.
UPDATES RELATING TO OUT OF HOURS SERVICE:
UPDATES RELATING TO MOBILE LIBRARIES:
- Bangor and Lisburn Mobile Library is temporarily unavailable.
- Belfast Mobile Library will be unavailable on Monday 2 February and Tuesday 3 February.
- Dungannon Mobile Library is temporarily unavailable.
- Tyrone Mobile Library service will resume on Friday 30 January.
