Rathcoole Library
Latest Service Updates
CUSTOMER NOTICE - Easter Bank Holidays Closure
All public libraries in Northern Ireland will be closed on Easter Monday, 6 April and Easter Tuesday, 7 April 2026 and Mobile Libraries will not be on the road. The Out of Hours Service will not be available on Saturday 4, Sunday 5, Easter Monday 6 and Easter Tuesday 7 April 2026.
You can check out our eResources via our website or app.
View full details and other service updates:
Customer Notice - Rathcoole Library Reopens with New Look and Sensory Space
Rathcoole Library will reopen on Thursday 2 April at 9:30am following refurbishment works, and we’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back.
The improvements have given the library a fresh new look, including new flooring throughout, redecoration in key areas, a reconfigured layout and new furniture. The result is a brighter, more modern and comfortable space for the local community to enjoy.
As part of the refurbishment, a dedicated sensory and early years environment has also been created, complete with a sensory mural and interactive features, which will be available during opening hours.
We appreciate your patience during the closure and look forward to seeing you back in Rathcoole Library soon.
Library Location
Events
| Event Name | Event Details | Start Date and Time | End Date and Time | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Adult Lego Club |
Every Monday morning from 10:00am - 12 noon. Enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits with the opportunity to create something fun! |
05/01/2026 10:00am | 29/06/2026 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. |
| Rhythm and Rhyme |
Every Monday and Saturday 11:00am – 11:30am.
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. |
05/01/2026 11:00am | 27/06/2026 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. |
| Adult Reading Group |
First Monday of each month 2:00pm – 3:00pm.
First Saturday of each month 10:00am – 11:00am.
The Adult Reading Group now takes place on the first Monday of each month from 2:00pm - 3:00pm as well as the first Saturday of each month 10:00am – 11:00am.
The Adult Reading Group for 16's and over gives an opportunity for adults to discuss their latest book. Tea/coffee available. |
05/01/2026 2:00pm | 06/06/2026 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. |
| Lego Club |
Monday and Friday 3:30pm – 4:15pm.
Come along and join the fun at Rathcoole Library’s Lego Club and let your creativity flow.
The perfect afternoon activity.
Suitable for children aged 6+ years; accompanied by an adult. |
05/01/2026 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. |
| Junior Reading Group |
First Tuesday of each month 4:00pm – 4:45pm.
Ages 8 – 11.
Junior Reading Groups are a fun way for children to be introduced to a wide range of new books, authors and to make new friends along the way. Members are asked to read a chosen book before each meeting, which will be available to borrow for free from the library catalogue. |
06/01/2026 4:00pm | 02/06/2026 4:45pm | 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. |
| Coole Club |
Every Wednesday morning from 10:00am - 12 noon. Join the fun participating in different activities including crafts, creative writing and puzzles! Tea, coffee and biscuits provided. |
07/01/2026 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. |
| Coole Creative |
Every Wednesday afternoon 3:00pm – 4:30pm.
Ages 11-16 Join the fun with different activities including colouring, crafts, puzzles and more! |
07/01/2026 3:00pm | 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. |
| Games Club |
Every Thursday afternoon 3:00pm – 4:30pm.
Board games can increase social interaction, relieve stress and increase intellectual stimulation.
Everyone welcome, no booking required.
|
08/01/2026 3:00pm | 25/06/2026 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. |
| Easter Scavenger Hunt |
Why not check out the new library décor as you take part in our Easter Scavenger Hunt. |
08/04/2026 9:30am | 08/04/2026 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. |
| Official Opening with Spring Wreath Making for Adults |
We are back and excited to welcome you to the ribbon cutting ceremony as we reopen Rathcoole Library to the public. Celebrate with us and have a cuppa to mark this special occasion with a special Spring Wreath Making Workshop. |
09/04/2026 10:00am | 09/04/2026 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. |
| Easter Extravaganza |
Hop into spring at the library as we enjoy creating something “Eastery” with an afternoon of Easter Crafts. t: 028 9085 1157 |
10/04/2026 2:00pm | 10/04/2026 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. |
| Sensory Stay and Play Day |
Join us for a day of play to celebrate Autism Awareness, with special sessions for different age groups. Perfect for home schoolers and groups. Booking is essential for all sessions. 10:30am-11:30am 0-4years- Sensory Story, sensory equipment play, and Duplo (in Sensory Space) 11:45am- 12:45noon- 4-8 years- Sensory Story, sensory Equipment Play, Duplo and Lego (in Sensory Space) 2:00pm-3:00pm- 8-13years-Brain Gym, Sensory Story sack, sensory equipment play, and Lego (in Sensory Space) 3:00pm-4:30pm. |
16/04/2026 10:30am | 16/04/2026 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. |
| NI War Memorial Visit- Second World War Reminiscence Workshop |
NI War Memorial Museum is coming to the library for a special session looking back through the past and artefacts from the time. This workshop is a Dementia Friendly Workshop. |
29/04/2026 11:00am | 29/04/2026 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. |
| Gel Printing with Nature- Print Making Workshops |
Using nature and a few supplementary techniques you will learn how to create beautiful handmade prints using a gelatine or “gel” plate. Have fun playing with print and creating your own mini collection. Materials are provided and no experienced is required, but please bring a handful of gathered nature with you - such as different leaves, grasses, small stems (nothing thorny or spiky), to make your prints more personal.
Please use the link to book your place: |
29/04/2026 2:00pm | 29/04/2026 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. |
