Belfast Central Library
Latest Service Updates
📢 CUSTOMER NOTICE - Bank Holiday Closure 📢
All public libraries in Northern Ireland will be closed on the Spring Bank Holiday, Monday 26 May and Mobile Libraries will not be on the road on that date. The Out of Hours Service will remain available on 26 May in appropriate libraries. Remember that members have free access to eServices during this period. Register to become a Member.
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.
Belfast Central Library will open at the later time of 4:00pm on Thursday 22 May due to essential staff training. Alternative libraries include Falls Road and Ormeau Road.
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. |
| Go On - 1-2-1 eClinic |
Tuesday 27 May 9:30am-12:30pm.
Booking is essential |
27/05/2025 9:30am | 27/05/2025 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. |
| Universal Credit information stand |
Call in for help and advice with Universal Credit, CV and interview skills and job search.
Booking not required. |
28/05/2025 9:30am | 28/05/2025 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. |
| Pride and (no) Prejudice Book Group |
Last Thursday on the month from 6:00pm - 7:00pm.
For more information please contact the library. t: 028 9050 9150 |
29/05/2025 6:00pm | 25/06/2026 7:00pm | 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. |
| North Belfast Jobs and Benefits Job club |
Join North Belfast Jobs and Benefits Office tea for advice on job application, interview skills and more.
Booking not required. |
30/05/2025 10:00am | 30/05/2025 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. |
| 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. |
| Unearthed: The Power of Gardening Exhibition |
Unearthed: the power of gardening is an exhibition of free standing panels within the library that explore how the act of gardening heals and sustains people, brings people together and shapes out relationship with the natural world.
Available to view during library opening hours. |
02/06/2025 9:00am | 27/06/2025 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. |
| CPA Annual Exhibition |
The Central Photographic Association is one of the oldest Camera Clubs in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1906 it is now in its 118th year. The Annual Exhibition is the culmination of a year’s work, covering ten different sections which are a combination of novice, advanced and open categories.
This exhibition is running throughout June and July in the ground floor foyer gallery. |
05/06/2025 9:00am | 31/07/2025 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. |
| 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. |
| CPA Annual Exhibiton Launch and Prize Giving Ceremony |
The Central Photographic Association is one of the oldest Camera Clubs in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1906 it is now in its 118th year. The Annual Exhibition is the culmination of a year’s work, covering ten different sections which are a combination of novice, advanced and open categories.
Booking not required. |
05/06/2025 6:30pm | 05/06/2025 8:00pm | 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. |
| Inspired Touring Exhibition |
This exhibition will be available to view during normal opening hours. |
25/07/2025 9:00am | 26/08/2025 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. |
