Rathcoole Library
Latest Service Updates
CUSTOMER NOTICE - Bank Holiday Closure
All public libraries in Northern Ireland will be closed on Monday 4 May and Mobile Libraries will not be on the road. The Out of Hours Service will be available in applicable libraries.
You can check out our eResources via our website or app.
View full details and other service updates:
Library Location
Events
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. |
| 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. |
| Party Animals NI |
Come and along and meet a fantastic variety of creatures from snakes and lizards to giant creepy crawlies and hedgehogs visiting with Party Animals NI. Booking Essential. |
02/05/2026 10:00am | 02/05/2026 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. |
| Sensory Stay and Play Club |
Come along to our Sensory Stay and Play club which is our new Quiet Hour Storytime in Rathcoole Library. Enjoy a Sensory Story with library staff and stay for a bit of play. Socialise with other parents, carers and guardians after and enjoy. Meets the First Wednesday of every month from 3:30pm - 4:30pm. |
06/05/2026 3:30pm | 03/06/2026 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. |
| Duplo Session |
Come along for a special Duplo session perfect for those 0-6 years old. |
09/05/2026 10:00am | 09/05/2026 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. |
| Jewellery Workshop |
Come along to the library and enjoy a special jewellery workshop from Gwen. |
09/05/2026 10:00am | 09/05/2026 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. |
| Time for Tea |
Join us in the library as we mark Mental Health Awareness Week by enjoying each other’s company which having a cuppa. Come as you are or bring a group. |
12/05/2026 10:00am | 12/05/2026 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. |
| Go On - 1-2-1 eClinic |
1-2-1 eClinic - IT help for beginners: help with your mobile device, general IT assistance, information about library e-services. |
14/05/2026 2:00pm | 14/05/2026 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. |
| Bug-tastic Time |
Join us in the library for a special session with a special bug theme. Build a bug hotel and design your own butterfly in a frame. Stay a while and enjoy the library space and activities along with a bug themed story. |
16/05/2026 10:00am | 16/05/2026 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. |
| Dementia Friends Talk |
Join us at Rathcoole Library as we mark Dementia Action week with a visit from the Alzheimer’s Society for a special Dementia Friends Talk. |
19/05/2026 11:00am | 19/05/2026 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. |
| Book Launch: The Seven Villages of Newtownabbey- Carnmoney, Glengormley, Jordanstown, Monkstown, Whiteabbey, Whitehouse and Whitewell |
Join us for the launch of a new local history publication celebrating the Seven Villages of Newtownabbey, written by Lorna Doherty, Chair of the NIFHS Antrim & Newtownabbey Branch. This special event will mark the publication of the guide and offer an opportunity to learn more about the history, stories, and communities that have shaped Newtownabbey. The launch will include an introduction to the book, reflections on the research behind it, and time for conversation and connection with others who share an interest in local heritage. Booking Advised. |
21/05/2026 11:00am | 21/05/2026 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. |
| Jigsaw Farm |
Step into an interactive farm morning and meet some lovable farm animals. A brilliant experience for animal lovers! |
23/05/2026 9:45am | 23/05/2026 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. |
| Day in the Sun |
Dig, decorate, and dazzle! Join us for flower planting and suncatcher making, then relax and enjoy everything the library has to offer. A fun-filled experience for the whole family! |
30/05/2026 10:00am | 30/05/2026 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. |
