Ballymena Central Library
Latest Service Updates
CUSTOMER NOTICE - Bank Holiday Closures
All Libraries NI’s public and mobile libraries will be closed on Saturday 12, Monday 14 and Tuesday 15 July. Libraries will reopen on Wednesday 16 July.
The Out of Hours service will be closed from Friday 11 July until Tuesday 15 July inclusive reopening on Wednesday 16 July in Out of Hours libraries.
Please remember that eServices (eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers) are available during this period, and joining online is free.
Click here to get the latest information about our library services and opening times
Library Location
Events
Event Name | Event Details | Start Date and Time | End Date and Time | Booking |
---|---|---|---|---|
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 | 04/06/2026 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. |
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. |
06/05/2025 10:30am | 26/05/2026 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. |
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. |
06/05/2025 10:30am | 23/06/2026 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. |
Baby Bounce |
Baby Bounce - Every Wednesday from 10.30am - 11.00am for babies 0-18mths.
Booking recommended. |
07/05/2025 10:30am | 24/06/2026 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. |
Lego Club |
Every Wednesday. |
07/05/2025 3:30pm | 24/06/2026 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. |
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. |
08/05/2025 10:00am | 26/06/2026 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. |
08/05/2025 10:00am | 26/06/2026 5:30pm | 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! |
09/05/2025 10:30am | 27/06/2026 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! |
09/05/2025 11:00am | 26/06/2026 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. |
Storytime and Craft |
Every Friday. |
09/05/2025 3:00pm | 26/06/2026 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. |
10/05/2025 10:30am | 27/06/2026 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 |
10/05/2025 11:00am | 27/06/2026 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. |
The Coder Club |
Takes place on the third Saturday of the month, from 10:00am - 12:00noon. Learn more about coding and programmes. For children aged 8 - 10 years; free admission. Booking not required. |
17/05/2025 10:00am | 20/06/2026 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. |
17/05/2025 1:00pm | 20/06/2026 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. |
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. |
27/05/2025 3:30pm | 30/06/2026 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. |
Ballymena in the '90s: A Local Lens |
Step back in time with this nostalgic exhibition from Ballymena Photography Club, showcasing everyday life and familiar faces from the 1990s. From bustling streets to quiet corners, these photographs offer a unique glimpse into the people and places that shaped the town a generation ago.
Available during library opening hours. |
02/06/2025 10:00am | 01/07/2025 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. |
Dig Up Adventure: Be an Archaeologist for a Day! |
Dig Up Adventure: Be an Archaeologist for a Day!
|
03/07/2025 11:30am | 03/07/2025 2:30pm | 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. |
Medieval Quest: Scavenger Hunt and Activity Table |
Grab your shield and set off on a medieval-themed scavenger hunt filled with fun facts and knightly crafts.
For children aged 4-11 years. Booking required. |
08/07/2025 11:30am | 08/07/2025 2:30pm | 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. |
Big Summer Read 2025 - Victorian Invention Detectives |
Step back in time and become a Victorian Invention Detective! Join Elaine Hill, The Braid Museum’s Heritage officer, for a fun and fascinating session using our special Victorian loan box filled with curious objects and clever inventions from the past. Can you guess what each object was used for in Victorian times? Take part in a mystery-style quiz and put your thinking cap on! Then dive into a mini book challenge to uncover amazing stories of real-life inventors who changed the world. Expect hands-on history, teamwork, and plenty of surprises! For children 6-11 years; Must be accompanied by an adult |
16/07/2025 11:00am | 16/07/2025 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. |
Future Builders: Design and Create a Robot |
Travel to tomorrow and bring your own robot to life using fun, hands-on craft materials and your imagination! |
24/07/2025 11:30am | 24/07/2025 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. |
This Is Us: 2025 Time Capsule Craft |
What will people in the future want to know about life in 2025? Help us create a special time capsule by adding your own snapshot of who you are today! Write a letter to your future self, draw a picture, or share your favourite book, hobby, or memory. All entries will be sealed and saved to be opened in years to come. A creative and meaningful activity for children and families.
For children aged 4-11 years accompanied by an adult. |
28/07/2025 2:30pm | 28/07/2025 3:30pm | 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. |