Belfast Central Library
Latest Service Updates
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Customer Notices
Belfast Central Library Service Update
Belfast Central Library is open to the public. However, the first-floor Reading Room remains closed while repair works continue in that area of the building. All other services, including the NI Writers’ Room and the Heritage Department, remain open as normal.
We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding. Further updates will be provided as works progress and full services resume.
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
Events
| Event Name | Event Details | Start Date and Time | End Date and Time | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| After Schools Club |
Join us in Belfast central Library for our free after school club in the children’s library. There will be activities, colouring pages and puzzles available daily. t: 028 9050 9150 |
21/04/2026 3:30pm | 30/06/2027 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. |
| Board Games Club |
Board games available for children aged 8+ every Thursday afternoon from 3:30pm – 4:30pm. |
23/04/2026 3:30pm | 24/06/2027 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. |
| Belfast Central Library tour |
Join us for a tour of one of Belfast’s most iconic buildings. Find out the history (and the secrets!) of Northern Ireland’s oldest public library. Everyone welcome. |
24/04/2026 10:30am | 27/11/2026 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. |
24/04/2026 12:30pm | 25/06/2027 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. |
| Belfast Central Seed Library |
Please note this is currently unavailable due to essential building maintenance on the 1st Floor of the building 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. |
27/04/2026 9:00am | 30/06/2027 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. |
| Tea and Newspapers |
Monday to Friday 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. |
27/04/2026 10:00am | 28/06/2027 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 - 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 |
28/04/2026 9:30am | 25/06/2027 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. |
| Knit and Natter |
Every Tuesday from 10:00am - 12 Noon. 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. |
28/04/2026 10:00am | 29/06/2027 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. |
| A Brew And A Browse |
Please note this is currently unavailable due to essential building maintenance on the 1st Floor. 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. |
29/04/2026 11:00am | 30/06/2027 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. |
| Chess Club |
Every Wednesday morning on the ground floor. |
29/04/2026 11:00am | 30/06/2027 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. |
| Rhythm and Rhyme |
Every Wednesday and Friday from 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. |
29/04/2026 11:00am | 25/06/2027 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. |
| Storytime and Craft |
Afternoon Storytime session every Wednesday 3:30pm – 4:15pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking not required. t: 028 9050 9150 |
29/04/2026 3:30pm | 30/06/2027 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 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. |
30/04/2026 10:30am | 24/06/2027 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. |
| Cryptic Corner |
Every Friday morning on the ground floor. Everyone welcome Keep your mind active - relax with crosswords, sudokus and word searches in good company whilst enjoying complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits. |
01/05/2026 10:00am | 25/06/2027 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. |
| 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. |
01/05/2026 2:30pm | 25/06/2027 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 - 4:00pm. Booking not required. Come along to have Lego building fun. Fun and creative ideas for things to make and build Lego. Duplo is available for younger children. |
02/05/2026 2:00pm | 26/06/2027 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. |
| 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 |
06/05/2026 11:00am | 02/06/2027 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. |
| 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.
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07/05/2026 1:00pm | 03/06/2027 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. |
| Junior Reading Group |
Are you a curious reader aged 8 – 10? If you love reading why not join our new monthly reading group. First Thursday of every month from 3:30pm – 4:30pm. |
07/05/2026 3:30pm | 06/05/2027 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. |
| CPA Camera Club 120th Anniversary Exhibition |
A showcase of outstanding photographic images from members of the Central Photographic Association celebrating the club's 120th anniversary. |
20/06/2026 11:00am | 30/07/2026 10:00am | 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. |
| Belfast Central Storytelling Circle |
Come along to Belfast Central Library and enjoy Adult Storytelling; listen to some tall tales, short stories and unique yarns from some of the country's greatest Storytellers. |
26/06/2026 1:30pm | 26/06/2026 2:30pm | 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. |
| Big Summer Read Launch and Zine Jam |
Come celebrate the start of Libraries NI’s Big Summer Read at Belfast Central Library. Collect your Reading Tree Chart and learn how to make your very own 8-page book. Aspiring authors, comic artists, and zinesters of all levels are welcome. Write, draw, cut, and stick your way to creating the first book of your Reading Challenge. |
01/07/2026 2:30pm | 01/07/2026 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. |
| Seed Bomb Workshop |
Get ready to watch your garden bloom! Join us at Belfast Central Library for a hands-on, family-friendly Seed-Bomb Making Workshop. We’ll be combining flour, compost, and a vibrant mix of native wildflower seeds into compact "bombs" that you can toss into your garden or empty patches. It’s a fun, easy craft that helps support pollinators like bees and butterflies. t: 028 9050 9150 |
09/07/2026 2:30pm | 09/07/2026 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. |
| Mr Hullabaloo |
Join Mr Hullabaloo, the magical storyteller, and friends for a fabulous morning of stories, songs and puppets. The perfect way to keep the little ones entertained this Summer.
Booking essential - Click here to book your place via Eventbrite. |
17/07/2026 11:00am | 17/07/2026 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. |
| Code-Breaking Workshop |
Calling all secret agents! Join us at Belfast Central Library for an interactive code-breaking workshop where we investigate the exciting world of cryptography. Perfect for puzzle lovers, aspiring detectives, and curious minds, this workshop will show you how to make and use a cipher wheel to construct (and crack!) coded messages. t: 028 9050 9150 |
23/07/2026 2:30pm | 23/07/2026 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. |
| Mermaid Belleweather's Bubbles and Stories |
Bring the family along to Belfast Central for an enchanting, interactive storytelling adventure with the wonderful Mermaid Belleweather. Gather around as our magical guest fills the library with colourful bubbles and enchanting stories. This hands-on experience promises unforgettable memories, fantastic photo opportunities, and a splash of pure joy.
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24/07/2026 11:00am | 24/07/2026 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. |
| Keep cool and look fabulous this Summer with Golden Thread Gallery and Belfast Central Library! |
Golden Thread Gallery and Belfast Central Library are teaming up to offer inclusive family-friendly crafting workshops. Come along to create your own colourful rainbow fan! Decorate with sequins, stickers, fabric and patterns to make your fan unique - just like you! There are two sessions available one in Golden Thread Gallery on Wednesday 22nd July from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and the other in Belfast Central Library on Friday 24th July from 12:30pm - 2:00pm. And it's completely free! Book your place through Eventbrite here: //www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rainbow-fan-making-workshop-tickets-1990982756019 Suitable for children aged 6 and above; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. |
24/07/2026 12:30pm | 24/07/2026 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. |
| Castle-Building Workshop |
Step back in time and become the architect of your own medieval fortress at our Castle-Building Workshop! Perfect for history buffs and creative minds alike, this hands-on session bridges the gap between past and present. As we construct miniature strongholds from recycled materials, we’ll explore the fascinating structural history behind real medieval fortifications. |
30/07/2026 2:30pm | 30/07/2026 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. |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - Family History Fair |
Meet heritage professionals, archivists and genealogy specialists from across Northern Ireland at this vibrant Family History Fair. Featuring archives, historical societies and research organisations, the event offers expert advice, resources and guidance for anyone exploring their family history or local past. |
01/08/2026 10:00am | 01/08/2026 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. |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - Threads of Tradition: an exhibition celebrating Irish Dance |
Come along during opening hours to Belfast Central Library and see the detail and beauty of Irish dance costumes. Marvel at the intricate, hand-stitched embroidery, vibrant colours and stunning craftsmanship that bring each unique garment to life. Explore a collection of memorabilia including, trophies, medals, and traditional footwear that tell the stories of Irish dancers. In collaboration with Jordan Academy of Irish Dance. t: 028 9050 9150 |
01/08/2026 10:00am | 08/08/2026 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. |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - Using DNA to Research Your Northern Irish Ancestors |
Genealogy specialist Martin McDowell introduces the use of DNA testing in family history research. As Chair of the North of Ireland Family History Society and an administrator of major DNA projects, Martin explains different test types, how to interpret results and how shared databases can uncover new ancestral connections. |
01/08/2026 2:00pm | 01/08/2026 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. |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - The Rolling Wave - RTE 100 |
As part of the RTÉ 100 celebrations, The Rolling Wave is hosting an audio-visual exhibition at various venues around the country in 2026. This pop-up event will focus on the rich archive of traditional music held by RTÉ as well as recording new music for broadcast in the autumn. Listen to a curated collection of RTÉ Radio's finest archive pieces related to traditional music accompanied by images from the RTÉ photographic collection and the ITMA. Booking not required. This event will be held in the NI Writers Room on the second floor. Thanks to MayWe for providing this event. |
07/08/2026 10:00am | 07/08/2026 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. |
| Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - Family Fun Day |
Join us for a jam-packed, magical day of free entertainment for the whole family. What to Expect? • Be amazed by the incredible tricks of magician Fizz Wizz Pop in a live magic show (10:30am – 11:30am) Booking advisable. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
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08/08/2026 10:30am | 08/08/2026 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. |
| Pack Your Suitcase: A Wartime Childhood Adventure |
Every object has a story to tell! In this hands-on history and craft session with the Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum, children will explore an evacuee suitcase, wartime objects, and children’s toys from the Second World War before making their own flying paper dart and funny faces book to take home. Suitable for ages 8-11. Booking essential.
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13/08/2026 2:30pm | 13/08/2026 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. |
| Instrument-making Workshop |
Unleash your inner artisan and discover the harmony of handmade music at Belfast Central Library! Join us for our Instrument-Making Workshop, where we will transform everyday materials into functional musical instruments. Perfect for makers of all skill levels, this hands-on session guides you through the rewarding process of crafting your own acoustic creations from scratch – which you can then take home! t: 028 9050 9150 |
20/08/2026 2:30pm | 20/08/2026 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. |
| Kubo the Robot |
Kubo the Robot in Space Belfast Central Library |
21/08/2026 2:30pm | 21/08/2026 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. |
| Big Summer Read Award Ceremony |
Come celebrate reading and bookworms at Belfast Central Library for the finale of our Big Summer Read activities. Whether you read three books or thirty, join us in the library for our certificate presentation ceremony. Place a new leaf on our Poet-Tree and make your own poem using the leaves other people have written. How has your Story Tree grown? t: 028 9050 9150 |
27/08/2026 2:30pm | 27/08/2026 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. |
