Rathcoole Library

Rathcoole Library

Latest Service Updates

CUSTOMER NOTICE - Libraries NI Out of Hours Service

Out of Hours libraries will close at 6:00pm (or at the library’s normal closing time if earlier) on Saturday evening, 20 September and will reopen on Monday morning, 22 September or at the library’s next scheduled Out of Hours opening time. However, all of our other library services will remain available at the normal times. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. 

Find out more

 

 

Library Location

 

Events

Event Name Event Details Start Date and Time End Date and Time Booking
Rhythm and Rhyme  
Every Monday from 11:15am to 11:45am.

Please ring the branch to book as numbers are limited.

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!
12/05/2025 11:15am 22/06/2026 11:45am 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  
Every Tuesday from 10:00am to 12 noon.

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.
13/05/2025 10:00am 23/06/2026 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.
Knit and Natter  
Every Tuesday from 10:00am to 12 noon.

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.
 
Everyone welcome. 
Tea and coffee provided.
 
13/05/2025 10:00am 23/06/2026 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 Tuesday from 3:30pm - 4:15pm.
 
Storytime and Craft is aimed at children aged 4 – 8 years; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Children can enjoy listening to stories and making a different craft each week. 

Please telephone the library to book your child’s place on 02890851157. Spaces are limited.
13/05/2025 3:30pm 23/06/2026 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.
Cryptic Corner  

Every Wednesday morning from 10:00am - 12 noon.

 

Keep your mind active – relax with crosswords and sudokus in good company.

14/05/2025 10:00am 24/06/2026 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.
Mindful Colouring  
Every Thursday from 10:00am to 12 noon.

Mindful Colouring groups are for anyone who wants to explore the world of adult colouring with intricate colouring patterns and designs. They can enhance well-being, help calm the mind and relieve stress through relaxed, meditative colouring in.
15/05/2025 10:00am 25/06/2026 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.
Lego Club  
Every Friday from 3:30pm - 4:15pm.
 
Come along and join the fun at Rathcoole Library’s Lego Club and let your creativity flow. Each week we will work on a different theme.
 
The perfect Friday afternoon activity.

Suitable for children aged 6+ years; accompanied by an adult.

t: 028 9085 1157
16/05/2025 3:30pm 26/06/2026 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.
Treasured Memories Cafe  
Come along to Rathcoole Library as visit the Treasured Memories Café. Perfect for those living with dementia or memory loss and their carers and families.
 
Treasured Memories Café takes place on the last Wednesday of the month.
Tea/Coffee available.

Booking not required.
28/05/2025 11:30am 24/06/2026 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.
Games Hub  

Come along to Rathcoole Library and have fun playing board games and bonding with others over common interests.

 

Board games can increase social interaction, relieve stress and increase intellectual stimulation.

 

Everyone welcome, no booking required.

Tea/coffee available.

Takes place on the last Wednesday of the month.

28/05/2025 2:00pm 24/06/2026 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.
Adult Reading Group  
The Adult Reading Group now takes place on the first Monday of each month from 2:00pm-3:00pm.
 
 
The Adult Reading Group for 16's and over gives an opportunity for adults to discuss their latest book.
02/06/2025 2:00pm 01/06/2026 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.
Mapping Monument Display  

Mapping Monument Display: View the display which explores the Landscape Legacies of the Ordnance Survey in and around Binevenagh and the coastal lowlands of Lough Foyle. A community heritage project led by QUB and Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust.


Available during library opening hours.

08/09/2025 10:00am 19/09/2025 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.
Macmillan Tea and Coffee Morning  

Join us at our Macmillan Tea and Coffee morning for a cuppa and some chat.


Booking not required.

23/09/2025 10:00am 23/09/2025 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.
Community Chat  

Come along for a relaxed conversation over a cuppa.

 

We’re hosting a friendly session where you can share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with some people who help keep our community safe and supported. Whether you have something on your mind or just fancy a chat, everyone is welcome.

30/09/2025 11:00am 30/09/2025 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.
Watercolour Workshop  

The library will be hosting people living with ill health for a special watercolour workshop by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust Health and Wellbeing Co-Ordinator. Register your interest by emailing Nicola Arbuckle, Health and Wellbeing Manager at nicola.arbuckle@northerntrust.hscni.net or by contacting the library. 

 

Held on the following dates from 10:30am - 12:30pm

Monday 6 October

Monday 13 October

Monday 20 October

Monday 27 October 

 

06/10/2025 10:30am 27/10/2025 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.
Helping Hands Tea Morning  

Come along to Rathcoole Library and enjoy our Tea morning. We will also have coffee and some nibbles to make the morning special. Join us for some fun and chat for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

 

Everyone welcome.

09/10/2025 10:00am 09/10/2025 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.
Harry Potter Day - Photo Booth  

Come along and wizard yourself at this dress up Harry Potter Photo Booth. 
t: 028 9085 1157

13/10/2025 9:30am 17/10/2025 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.
Harry Potter Day - Wand Creation Workshop  

Join us in Rathcoole Library and celebrate Harry Potter Day in style with our Wand Creation Workshop. 

 

t: 028 9085 1157

14/10/2025 2:00pm 14/10/2025 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.
Knit Your Bubbies Party  

Rathcoole Knit and Natterers have been helping PHA breastfeeding promotion via midwives by knitting some buddies to help with education for new mums. This will be the day of the party to celebrate all the bubbies knitted and bring in any final creations. As part of Parenting Week.

21/10/2025 10:00am 21/10/2025 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.
Spanish Storytime  

Enjoy learning some basic Spanish and hear a story in Español! Everyone is welcome. Booking is advisable.
t: 028 9085 1157

21/10/2025 3:00pm 21/10/2025 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.
Turning Pages - Book Week NI Panel  

Join us at Rathcoole Library and enjoy meeting some local authors. Hear about their work, books and stories born from their imagination and surroundings. Booking is not required.

23/10/2025 11:00am 23/10/2025 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.
Teenie Weenie Halloween Party  

Get dressed up or come as you are to the Rathcoole Halloween party for under 5’s.  


t: 028 9085 1157

27/10/2025 11:00am 27/10/2025 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.
Storybook Yoga  

Join us at the library for a special Treat with Squiggles and Giggles.  Enjoy a Children's storybook yoga session suitable for children aged 4 - 9 years old which will focus on a storybook, with lots of yoga poses, breathwork and movement. This lasts for around 35 - 40minutes and maximum of 15 participants in each workshop so don't delay. 

 

Contact the library to reserve your place.

t: 028 9085 1157

Wednesday 29 October 3:30pm - 4:15pm

29/10/2025 3:30pm 29/10/2025 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.
Halloween Scavenger Hunt  

Come join us if you dare for a scavenger hunt on Halloween, come as you are or wear a fun costume!

 

t: 028 9085 1157

31/10/2025 2:30pm 31/10/2025 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.