Ballymena Central Library
Latest Service Updates
📢 CUSTOMER NOTICE - Bank Holidays Closure 📢
All public libraries in Northern Ireland will be closed on May Day, Monday 5 May and on the Spring Bank Holiday, Monday 26 May and Mobile Libraries will not be on the road on those dates. The Out of Hours Service will remain available on 5 May and 26 May in appropriate libraries. Remember that members have free access to eServices during this period. Register to become a Member.
Library Location
Events
| Event Name | Event Details | Start Date and Time | End Date and Time | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Coder Club |
Takes place on the third Saturday of the month, from the 16 September from 10:00am - 12:00noon. Learn more about coding and programmes. For children aged 8 - 10 years; free admission. Booking not required. |
16/11/2024 10:00am | 21/06/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Ballymena Bishops |
Takes place on the third Saturday of the month from 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Learn and develop your chess skills. For children aged 8 - 14 years; free admission. Booking not required. |
16/11/2024 1:00pm | 21/06/2025 3:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Writers Block - Creative Writing |
Fortnightly on a Tuesday of every month from 10:30am to 12:30pm. Booking is essential as numbers are limited. Are you a budding writer or poet? Come along to our new group and meet like-minded people and share ideas. Whether it is your first attempt or you are a seasoned writer you will be prompted by new ideas each week. Use this time out to take a well-deserved break from your day; to escape and relax the mind. |
19/11/2024 10:30am | 24/06/2025 12:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Rhythm and Rhyme |
Every Friday from 10:30am to 11:00am. Booking essential on day prior to event. Rhythm and Rhyme sessions introduce parents and children aged 0 - 4 years to the wonder of rhymes, songs and stories. Each session offers an entertaining opportunity for children to engage with others, provides a good foundation to develop their reading, listening and language skills and of course to have lots of fun! |
22/11/2024 10:30am | 27/06/2025 11:00am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Wee Builders Duplo Club |
Every Friday from 11.00am - 12.00noon. For children aged 1-5 accompanied by an adult.
Come along and join us for a session of building fun! |
22/11/2024 11:00am | 27/06/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Cryptic Colour Corner |
Available daily during library opening hours. Why not challenge yourself to a puzzle or relax with a colouring sheet. |
25/11/2024 9:30am | 27/06/2025 5:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Tea and Newspapers |
Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00am - 12:00pm Tea and Newspapers groups give adults the opportunity to meet new people, socialise and discuss local and national affairs in the newspapers while enjoying complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits. |
26/11/2024 10:00am | 26/06/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Knit and Natter |
Every Tuesday from 10:30am to 11:30am. Knit and Natter Groups are for adults who enjoy knitting, crochet, cross stitch and other crafts. They are free of charge to attend and participants have the opportunity to share hints and tips, swap patterns, meet new people and learn new skills. Members can bring along a project they are already working on or can start something new. |
26/11/2024 10:30am | 24/06/2025 11:30am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Page Turners Adult Reading Group |
Held on last Tuesday of the month from 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Adult Reading Groups are a great opportunity for members to join in some lively literary discussions in a relaxed, friendly environment. The groups encourage people to read for pleasure, share their enthusiasm and express opinions about books and their authors. The group meets on a regular basis and the book the group will be discussing can be borrowed from the library catalogue for free. |
26/11/2024 3:30pm | 24/06/2025 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Lego Club |
Every Wednesday. |
27/11/2024 3:30pm | 25/06/2025 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Storytime & Craft |
Every Friday. |
29/11/2024 3:00pm | 20/06/2025 4:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Rhythm and Rhyme |
Every Saturday, during term time only. |
30/11/2024 10:30am | 21/06/2025 11:00am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Duplo Club |
Every Saturday, during term time only.
t: 028 2563 3950 |
30/11/2024 11:00am | 21/06/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Baby Bounce |
Baby Bounce - Every Wednesday from 10.30am - 11.00am for babies 0-18mths.
Booking recommended. |
30/04/2025 10:30am | 17/12/2025 11:00am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| King’s Trust Info and Drop In Session |
We’re here to help young people aged 16-30 explore courses, find a career or launch their own business. Come along and find out about local opportunities.
Booking not required. |
01/05/2025 11:00am | 01/05/2025 1:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Time Out - Adult Reading Group |
Time Out - Adult reading group - Monthly on 1st Thursday of the month from 1.00pm-2.00pm.
t: 028 2563 3950 |
01/05/2025 1:00pm | 04/12/2025 2:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Connect North Drop In Session |
Are you or someone you know feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges—like housing worries, money struggles, managing long-term health conditions, or feeling lonely? Connect North could help. Join us for a friendly drop-in session with a Connect North Link Worker, who will be available to offer information and advice on Population Plus—a free online directory packed with local services and support options tailored to your needs.
No appointment needed – just come along for a chat and discover what support is out there for you, your family, or your community. |
07/05/2025 10:00am | 07/05/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Bros and Board Games |
Calling all men! Drop in for a relaxed morning of classic board games, friendly competition, coffee, and good conversation. It’s a great way to connect with others and take a moment for your mental wellbeing during Mental Health Awareness Week.
No booking required—just bring yourself! |
13/05/2025 10:00am | 13/05/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Kindness Counts! Create Your Own Kindness Calendar |
Join us for a fun and creative session where children can design their very own kindness calendars. Packed with small, thoughtful acts, these calendars are a great way to inspire everyday compassion and help make the world a little brighter—one kind gesture at a time.
No booking needed. For children aged 6-11 years. |
14/05/2025 3:15pm | 14/05/2025 4:15pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| The Big Family Switch Off |
Visit Ballymena Library without digital devices and instead enjoy reading, board games, jigsaws, mindful colouring or connect with others at our chatty table.
Booking not required. |
15/05/2025 10:00am | 15/05/2025 8:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Big Purple Picnic |
Celebrate community and connection at our Big Purple Picnic! Enjoy a cheerful morning of tea, coffee, tasty treats, and great company—everyone’s welcome.
Wear your favourite purple outfit and join in the fun as we raise awareness for mental health in a colourful and uplifting way.
Booking not required. |
20/05/2025 10:00am | 20/05/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Connect North Drop In Session |
Are you or someone you know feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges—like housing worries, money struggles, managing long-term health conditions, or feeling lonely? Connect North could help.
Join us for a friendly drop-in session with a Connect North Link Worker, who will be available to offer information and advice on Population Plus—a free online directory packed with local services and support options tailored to your needs.
No appointment needed – just come along for a chat and discover what support is out there for you, your family, or your community. |
27/05/2025 10:00am | 27/05/2025 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
