Rathcoole 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Uniform Scheme |
Visit the library and donate your child's old uniform in the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council's Uniform Scheme.
Available during library opening hours. |
03/06/2025 9:30am | 30/08/2025 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. |
| The Laughing Loop |
Come along and take part in the Laughing Loop. Take a quick, gentle stroll with library staff with giggles and banter along the way. Then back to the library for some refreshments. Children must be accompanied by an adult from 11:00am - 12 noon.
Other dates are: |
18/06/2025 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. |
| Mummy Catwalk |
Grab a friend or find one when you arrive and design your Egyptian mummy clothing with the materials provided. After your creations are complete, strut your stuff on the Mummy Catwalk showing off your amazing design.
Booking advised. t: 028 9085 1157 |
08/07/2025 2:00pm | 08/07/2025 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. |
| Big Summer Read 2025 - Making Magic Afternoon |
Discover some magic at Rathcoole Library’s Making Magic Afternoon doing tricks and illusions. Will we discover a bit of "magic" in us?
For families and children must be accompanied by an adult |
15/07/2025 2:00pm | 15/07/2025 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. |
| Coole Camp In |
Visit the Coole Camp Site and enjoy some indoor campsite activities. Come as a family or as you are for this family style event.
Children aged 8 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Tel: 028 9085 1157. |
22/07/2025 2:00pm | 22/07/2025 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. |
| Uno Session |
Don’t forget to say “Uno!” Join us for a fun time as we play Uno. Who will come out on top and who will be left holding all the cards. Why not come along?
Children aged 8 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Tel: 028 9085 1157. |
23/07/2025 2:00pm | 23/07/2025 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. |
| Pebble Art Workshop |
Come along to Rathcoole Library for a special Pebble Art Workshop using recycled materials. The workshop is being facilitated by Arc 21 and is in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council's Silver Summer Program. Spaces are limited. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Booking Essential |
24/07/2025 11:00am | 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. |
| Alien Invasion |
Aliens have come to Rathcoole Library and they think the books are food!
Can you help us find the naughty aliens and get them back to their spaceship to send them home before all the books are eaten?
Release your inner hero and help us out and report for duty, at the front desk, on the day.
Family event. Children aged 8 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Tel: 028 9085 1157. |
30/07/2025 2:00pm | 30/07/2025 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. |
| Gaming Session |
Enjoy a special Gaming Session at Rathcoole Library. From board games to screen, enjoy the fun atmosphere at this event.
Family event. Children aged 8 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Tel: 028 9085 1157. Booking advisable. |
30/07/2025 2:00pm | 30/07/2025 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. |
