Belfast Central Library
Latest Service Updates
📢 CUSTOMER NOTICE: LIBRARIES WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSE DUE TO WEATHER WARNING 📢
Due to the yellow and amber Met Office weather warnings in place, all libraries will close from 3:00pm on the 3 October 2025. Some may close from earlier due to regional conditions.
At this stage, we hope that all libraries will reopen on the 4 October 2025 as normal but we would suggest calling your library before commencing your journey.
All mobile libraries will be off the road on the 3 October and Out of Hours Service will not be available from 3:00pm on the 3 October until normal library opening hours on Saturday Morning.
Belfast Central Library Northern Ireland Contemporary Fiction Collection
This unique collection features works by authors born in Northern Ireland, those who have spent significant time living here, and books set within Northern Ireland. It will encompass a variety of genres, including adult and junior fiction, poetry, and plays.
The NI Contemporary Fiction Collection is on the second floor of Belfast Central Library, Royal Avenue. Music books, CDs, and scores are still available upon request from staff or via the Libraries NI catalogue, a selection of music titles can also be found in the Link corridor on the same floor.
View the Belfast Central Library 135th Anniversary Booklet
Library Location
Events
| Event Name | Event Details | Start Date and Time | End Date and Time | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tea and Newspapers |
Every Monday from 10:00am - 12:00pm. Everyone welcome. 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. |
28/04/2025 10:00am | 22/06/2026 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. |
| Belfast Central Seed Library |
The Belfast Central Seed Library is situated beside the counter in our 1st floor reading room. It is very easy to take part: Simply take a packet or 2 of seeds from our seed catalogue drawers. We have a large selection of flower, plants, herb and vegetable seeds to choose from. And before you leave don’t forget to also check our A - Z of gardening related book subjects listed in the catalogue drawer. You might just find a book to help you with your planting! Then take your seed packets home, plant them and enjoy watching them grow and don’t forget to let us know how you get on. Finally, if you know of anyone else who would interested in our Seed Library please let them know about it. The more budding gardeners we can get the better as it will help our Seed Library continue to grow! Available during library opening hours. |
02/05/2025 9:00am | 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. |
| Go On - Newspaper Library One to One Sessions |
Find out about our extensive collection in the Newspaper Library and how to use it. Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
02/05/2025 9:30am | 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 Wednesday and Friday from 11:00am – 11:30am. Booking advised. 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 |
02/05/2025 11:00am | 26/06/2026 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. |
| Knit and Natter |
Every Tuesday from 10:30am - 11:30am. Everyone welcome. 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 | 23/06/2026 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. |
| Chess Club |
Every Tuesday morning on the 1st Floor |
06/05/2025 11:00am | 23/06/2026 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. |
| A Brew And A Browse |
Every Wednesday morning on the 1st Floor Everyone welcome. Enjoy tea/coffee and biscuits whilst you browse specially selected items on various topics from our extensive book and periodical stock. |
07/05/2025 11:00am | 24/06/2026 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. |
| Classical Music Club |
First Wednesday of every month from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Get together with like minded people to enjoy listening to and discussing all things classical music. Each month will focus on the music of a specific genre or composer. Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
07/05/2025 11:00am | 03/06/2026 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 |
Afternoon Storytime session every Wednesday 3:00pm – 3:30pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking advised. t: 028 9050 9150 |
07/05/2025 3:00pm | 24/06/2026 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. |
| Mindful Colouring |
Every Thursday 10:30am-12:00pm. Everyone welcome. 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. |
08/05/2025 10:30am | 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. |
| Puzzles Around The Pillars |
Every Friday morning on the 1st Floor Everyone welcome Keep your mind active - relax with crosswords, sudokus and word searches in good company whilst enjoying complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits. |
09/05/2025 11:00am | 26/06/2026 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. |
| Shared Reading Group |
Every Friday 2:30pm - 3:30pm. Come along and enjoy listening to literature being read aloud in real time and be part of a shared reading group discussion. You will enjoy listening to a great story or poem, with no pressure to talk or read. Refreshments provided. |
09/05/2025 2:30pm | 26/06/2026 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. |
| Lego Club |
Every Saturday from 2:00pm - 3:00pm. Booking advised. Come along to have Lego building fun. Fun and creative ideas for things to make and build Lego. Lego ages- 6-10 Dupio ages- 4-6 |
10/05/2025 2:00pm | 27/06/2026 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. |
| Belfast Central Library Tour |
Last Friday of every month from 10:30am - 11:30am. Join us for a tour of one of Belfasts most iconic buildings. Find out the history (and the secrets!) of Northern Irelands oldest public library. Booking not required. |
30/05/2025 10:30am | 26/06/2026 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. |
| Lunchtime Adult Reading Group |
Lunchtime Reading Group; Last Friday of the Month. From 12:30pm – 1:30pm Chat about popular titles from a wide range of genres in a relaxed and informal setting. Free tea and coffee will be provided – feel free to bring a packed lunch. Please contact Belfast Central Library for more information and to pick up a copy of this month’s book. |
30/05/2025 12:30pm | 26/06/2026 1:30pm | 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. |
| Classic Book Group |
First Thursday of the month from 1:00pm - 2:00pm.
Chat about classic titles from a wide range of genres in a relaxed and informal setting. Free tea and coffee will be provided – feel free to bring a packed lunch.
|
05/06/2025 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. |
| Creative Writing Group |
Are you a budding or poet? Come along to our creative writing group and meet like-minded people and share ideas. Whether it is your first attempt or you are a seasoned writer, you are very welcome to join in. There will be new prompts and writing exercises each week with refreshments provided. Use this time out to take a break from your day, build a writing habit and use your imagination!
Every Wednesday 2:00pm - 3:30pm Booking essential, ask staff for details |
17/09/2025 2:00pm | 24/06/2026 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. |
| Hands On Heritage- 'Newspapers, Read All About It!' |
Get hands on with us and explore our archives, newspapers and collections. This session will focus on our newspaper collection going back as far as the 1700's. Ask staff for details and to book your place. t: 028 9050 9156 e: belfastheritage@librariesni.org.uk
|
07/10/2025 11:00am | 07/10/2025 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. |
| Little Librarians After School Club |
When the school bell rings, don’t let the fun and learning stop! Join us at Belfast Central Library for our free after school club in the children’s library. There will be activities, crafts and stories with a different theme each week. For children aged 8 - 11 years. Everyone welcome, booking is essential.
Tuesday 7 October Tuesday 14 October Tuesday 21 October
To book please speak to a member of staff.
|
07/10/2025 3:30pm | 21/10/2025 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. |
| North Belfast Jobs and Benefits Office Job Club |
Join North Belfast Jobs and Benefits Office team for advice on job application, interview skills and more.
|
10/10/2025 10:00am | 10/10/2025 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. |
| Garrett Carr and Wendy Erskine in Conversation with Richard O'Reilly |
Authors Garett Carr ('The Boy From the Sea') and Wendy Erskine ('The Benefactors') join BBC presenter Richard O'Reilly to discuss their work. Includes a light lunch.
Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
20/10/2025 12:30pm | 20/10/2025 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. |
| Creative Writing Workshop with Shirley Anne McMillan |
For Book Week NI Belfast Central Library will be hosting a creative writing workshop lead by author Shirley Anne McMillan for members of creative writing groups across Belfast libraries.
Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
20/10/2025 3:00pm | 20/10/2025 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. |
| Hands On Heritage: Exploring Northern Irish Writers |
Step behind the scenes with Belfast Central's heritage collections in this special Book Week NI session. Handle rare editions, and letters from writers such as Seamus Heaney, Michael Longley and Amanda McKittrick Ros. A treasure trove for anyone fascinated by Northern Ireland's literary past.
Please speak with a member of staff to book your place |
22/10/2025 11:00am | 22/10/2025 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. |
| The Northern Bank Job: Glenn Patterson and Eamonn Mallie |
Journalist Eamonn Mallie sits down with acclaimed novelist Glenn Patterson to discuss ‘The Northern Bank Job’ - the true story of the biggest cash heist in Irish and British history. This is a rare chance to witness a writer and broadcaster explore a case that shook the nation.
Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
22/10/2025 2:30pm | 22/10/2025 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. |
| Haunted tales: Irish Ghost Stories and Creative Writing at Halloween |
Extracts read from Irish Ghost Stories; a top 5 haunted house books and a short story guided hour. Suitable for adults only. t: 028 9050 9150 |
23/10/2025 6:00pm | 23/10/2025 7:30pm | 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. |
| North Belfast Jobs and Benefits Office Job Club |
Join North Belfast Jobs and Benefits Office team for advice on job application, interview skills and more.
Booking not required. |
24/10/2025 10:00am | 24/10/2025 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. |
| Meet Kubo the Robot |
Learn the basics of coding with an interactive game that helps Kubo move around. This time we need you to help Kubo find all the ghosts on his Halloween board! Suitable for 4-10 year olds.
Booking advisable. t: 028 0950 9150 e: belfast.central@librariesni.org.uk
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28/10/2025 2:00pm | 28/10/2025 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. |
| Universal Credit Information Stand |
Call in for help and advice with Universal Credit, CV and interview skills and job search.
Booking not required. |
29/10/2025 9:30am | 29/10/2025 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. |
| Sensory Storytime |
Enjoy a special sensory Storytime with tales from the library brought to life! Engage with all your senses and be part of the journey through some Autumn Tales. Suitable for children aged 4-8 years accompanied by an adult.
Booking advised. |
30/10/2025 2:00pm | 30/10/2025 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. |
| Halloween Family Fun |
Come along for an afternoon of half term Halloween fun in the Children's Library. There will be spooky crafts, a scavenger hunt and giant games on offer. Drop in and enjoy the fun!
Booking not required. |
31/10/2025 2:00pm | 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. |
